Gordon Lawrence Smith Jr.

Gordon Lawrence Smith, Jr., age 73, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, at his home in New Braunfels, Texas.

Known to many as Larry, he was born on September 20, 1951, in Gatesville, Texas, to Gordon Lawrence Smith, Sr. and Constance Gigstad Smith. He graduated from Gatesville High School in 1970 and went on to earn his degree in Physical Education and History from Texas Tech University. A proud Red Raider through and through, Larry never missed a chance to sport his Tech gear and cheer on his team.

Larry dedicated over thirty years to teaching middle school Texas history, most of them at Corbett Junior High (formerly O. Henry) in the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District. His deep knowledge and passion for Texas history—especially tales of the Alamo and Native American cultures—made his classroom a place of inspiration and curiosity. According to some former students (who all said he was by far their favorite teacher), Larry would say “to make a long story short” and then take the whole class period finishing the story. When going with the kids, Scouts, or grandkids to the Alamo, Larry would tell remarkable things not taught in school and he would draw a crowd because he was acting like a knowledgeable tour guide sharing incredible facts about the battle and important people at the time.

Larry was a star athlete in high school and so in addition to teaching, he became a football and track and field coach. As a beloved coach, “Coach Smith” mentored generations of young athletes, emphasizing discipline, heart, and sportsmanship.

He also founded Striders, a successful summer track program that helped shape numerous talented athletes. His contributions to youth athletics left a lasting legacy both in the district and beyond.

In 1974, Larry married Christie Smith (no relation, we promise!). The couple lived briefly in Marlin and Schertz before settling in New Braunfels in 1977, where they raised their three children. Larry passed exactly one week before their 51 st anniversary. Over the decades, their home was filled with laughter, love, and many cherished pets.

Larry had a lifelong love for music, especially Texas country and classic rock. He could often be found jamming to Jerry Jeff Walker or The Rolling Stones, his undisputed choice for the “greatest rock and roll band of all time.” An outdoorsman at heart, he found joy in nature, hunting, and time spent boating, water skiing, tubing, or fishing along the Texas coast. He was never discouraged by an empty line and always had a story ready about the one that got away. His favorite places were Rockport, Texas and the blue waters of the Caribbean.

He loved his new name that was given to him when his first grandson, Connor, was born. “Papa” loved playing with the kids and taking them on adventures. Papa soon welcomed Caroline, Anna, Erica, Ray, and most recently Yuna.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law, Bobby Berry.

He is survived by his wife, Christie; his children and their spouses: April and Mark Gregg, Amanda and Marc Fritz, Adam and Eri Smith; his six grandchildren: Connor and Caroline Gregg, Anna and Erica Fritz, Ray and Yuna Smith. He is also survived by his sister, Becky Berry, as well as his nieces and nephew, along with former students, and friends.

The family will hold a private service to honor his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels, whose compassionate care provided great in his last days.