Mr. Eddie B. Smith

Eddie Beccher Smith was born June 19, 1925 (Juneteenth) in Madisonville, Texas, to the union of Alverta Josey and Julius Smith.

He was educated in the Huntersville, Texas school system and upon graduation in 1944, joined the United States Navy.

Eddie B. served during World War II as a Cook Third Class. After his Honorable Discharge in 1946, he moved to Kansas City where he joined his brother Lee James Smith, Sr. and family.

Eddie B. was a member of Second Baptist Church where he met and married the late Berna Jean Holbert Call in 1952. As a couple, they were highly regarded as superb caterers and stewards. Their outstanding work ethics and reputation led them to work for some of Kansas City’s most prestigious families.

In the mid-seventies, Eddie B. and Berna Jean relocated to Wooster, Ohio to work for the Secrest Family and the Wooster Brush Company. Upon returning to Kansas City, he was recognized and highly sought after as a preeminent bartender.

Throughout his life, Eddie B. enjoyed sports, especially fishing and golfing. Traveling with his wife in their personal RV motorhome was a lifetime highlight, especially trips to visit family in Texas. For many years, he was an active member of the Kansas City Lions Club, participating in the monthly meetings and special charitable events.

During his senior years, Eddie B. loved to BBQ and host his Annual Birthday JUNETEENTH Celebration. He had a special fondness for hanging out at “Old Folks” for good fellowship and great games of dominoes. Listening to “old school” jazz and blues was a part of his daily routine. Family meant everything to Eddie B. He had a special bond with his son, both looked forward to their Sunday telephone calls and frequent visits to Texas.

Eddie B. had an exceptional relationship with “The Smith Boyz”, including hosting their annual viewing party of the Masters Golf Tournament. He demonstrated true love for all of his family and friends. His hospitality skills always made everyone feel welcome, constantly offering an endless supply of BBQ and top-shelf beverages. Both parents, wife, son J.B., brothers Eugene and Lee James, Sr., preceded him in death.

Eddie B.’s legacy will live on through his son, Adair (Red) Smith of Houston, Texas; daughter, Betty Jean Ammons of Houston, Texas; Grandson, William Ammons, 3 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild all of Houston, Texas; nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews; very special friends Luella Foreman and John Konzak; and a host of other family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 2, 2023,11am at the Watkins Heritage Chapel. Interment Forest Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10am-11am at the chapel. Services conducted by Lawrence A. Jones & Sons. Condolences may be shared on our website.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.