Richard Julian

Smith

Santa Rosa, TX -

Richard Julian Smith, longtime resident of Santa Rosa, died March 22, 2016, surrounded by family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Julian and Eve Smith, and is survived by his children, Christopher and Genevieve Smith, one brother Mark (Mary) Smith, one sister Stephanie (Brad) Spencer, two nephews, one niece, and one grand-nephew.

Rick was born in Pekin, Illinois, on July 15, 1951, but he made his home in the Rio Grande Valley shortly after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 1973. Settling in Santa Rosa with his new bride, he eventually formed a partnership with his college roommate and, together as Charick Farms farmed several hundred acres in the area. In addition to farming, he worked for and later managed the La Feria Water District.

Many people in the area knew Rick for his kindness and generosity. He especially formed a close friendship with Jose M. (Fluffy) Garza, wife Dora, daughters, Christa, Griselda (G.G.), and Bianca, as well as granddaughter Jasmyn, who became his second family.

He found great pleasure in raising roses and earned the title of Master Gardener.

After a serious illness, he retired in the Fall of 2014, but he continued to keep his strong relationship with the land and local farmers.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 26, at Trinity Funeral Home in Harlingen from 10 am to 7 pm with recitation of the Rosary at 5 pm.

A funeral mass will be conducted on Monday, March 28, at 10 am at St. Mary Catholic Church in Santa Rosa.

Burial will follow at Heavenly Grace Memorial Park under the direction of Trinity at Harrison Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to St. Mary Catholic Church in honor of Rick. Though gone from sight, never gone from our hearts.