Lester Harold Smyth, Jr

Lester Harold Smyth, Jr. (Smitty), age 90, of Ulysses, Kansas, died Thursday, November 12, 2020, at Western Prairie Senior Living Community in Ulysses, Kansas. He was born November 11, 1930, in Lakin, Kansas, the son of Lester Harold, Sr. and Pearl Leona (Walker) Smyth.

Lester graduated from Grant County Rural High School then continued his education at Garden City Community College for one year. Lester served in the United States Navy as a Boatswain’s Mate Third Class aboard the USS Chevalier (DDR-805). After his honorable discharge, Lester farmed with his father, operated the Fina Filling Station, drove the bulk fuel truck for Brunsell Oil, worked as a Foreman at Ulysses Irrigation and Pipe, before becoming a manager and equipment operator for Smyth Oil & Gas. Lester was a member of the Shelton Memorial Christian Church, Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post #79, and a Veteran of the Korean War.

Lester married Lyla Jeannine Arthur on June 20, 1954, in Ulysses. She preceded him in death in 2002.

Lester is survived by two sons, Blaine Smyth and wife Denise of Grove, Oklahoma, Stan Smyth and wife Leona of Ulysses; nine grandchildren, Mickey Smyth, Brock Smyth, Kamie Smyth, Matt Pruett, Shelli Miller, Nicole Hallums, Kelin Smyth, Kyle Smyth, and Kayla Smyth; and 22 great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, other family and friends.

Lester is preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Netta Smyth; and brother, Victor Smyth.

Graveside service will be Monday, November 16, 2020, at 10:30 AM at the Ulysses Cemetery in Ulysses, Kansas, with Reverend Kelly Gindlesberger officiating. Military rites by Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post #79. The service may also be viewed on Garnand Funeral Home Facebook Live. Visitation will be Sunday, November 15, 2020, from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM with family present from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home, Ulysses, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be given to the Shelton Memorial Christian Church or Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post #79 in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave., Ulysses, Kansas 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.