Duane Noble Smith, 85, passed away on Aug. 24, 2021, at home in Sierra Vista, Ariz.

Duane was born in Del Rio, Texas, on Dec. 28, 1935. He is survived by his wife and soul mate of 65 years, Janice Parker Smith, four sons, their wives, 16 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Duane was the son of

Duane Eugene and Louise Noble Smith, and was raised in Sanderson, Texas, until the age of six. His fam ily then moved to Alpine, Texas, where he attended all 12 years of public school. Duane’s parents in partnership with others owned and ran the Alpine Rexall Drug Store for many years.

Duane attended Texas Christian University on a full basketball scholarship. Duane and Janice were married on Dec. 26, 1956. He transferred to the University of Texas, and graduated as a distinguished military graduate in 1959. Following graduation Duane, Janice and family embarked on a career in the U.S. Army, culminating in a stellar 27-year military career. After retiring as a full colonel, Duane pursued a second career with McDonnell Douglas Helicopter Co. in Mesa, Ariz. Duane and Janice retired to Sierra Vista in 1997.

As a lover of sports, Duane was an avid tennis player and overall sports enthusiast. He was devoted to Janice and the care and wellbeing of his family. His children and grandchildren benefited from his teaching and guidance emphasizing professions, education, and sports.

Duane loved Arizona’s natural beauty. Being surrounded by the Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts and the Huachuca and Dragoon mountains reminded him of his boyhood home in Alpine.