Bobby O. Smith
Bobby O. Smith of San Manuel passed away at home at the age of 86 on July 16, 2025. Bobby was born March 1, 1939, in Luxora, Arkansas to Esther Pearl Moore and William Russell Smith.
Bobby married his sweetheart, Carolyn Sue, on Nov. 28, 1960, in Oceola, Arkansas. Once married, he and Carolyn moved to Chicago, Illinois where he worked on the docks of DeSota Chemical until 1967. After a few months in Arkansas, they settled in DuQuoin, Illinois where Bobby worked for the Blue Bell meat packing plant for six years. While living back east, they were blessed with three boys.
In the summer of 1973, Bobby moved his family from southern Illinois to San Manuel where he worked for Magma Copper Company then BHP Copper from 1973 to 1999 when the mine shut down. He worked as a supervisor in the refinery.
In his spare time, Bobby enjoyed fishing, fixing things, BBQing, cooking smoked meats, growing chile peppers, and most of all spending time with his family. Those who knew him well know that he loved his family beyond measure. We will all miss Papa’s advice.
Bobby is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carolyn Sue; sons, Robert (Verdean), Shawn (Angela) and Jeffery (Rachel); sister, Nancy (Bo) Hinchey; 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Esther and William, and one brother Billy Gene.
Final resting place will be in Central, Graham County, Arizona.