Lester H. Smith, Jr.

Lester H. Smith, Jr., age 96, died on July 20, 2026, at Richland Place Health Care Center in Nashville, TN.

He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Kathryn Walston Smith; and by daughters, Shanon Smith (Chris), Lacey Smith Scully, and Rachel Smith McCaskill; grandchildren, Courtney Smith, Casey Christian, Preston Smith (Katie), Savannah Andrews (Justin) all of Dallas, TX; Robert Scully (Miharu) of Tokyo, Japan, Kathryn Hurley (Cal) of Cartersville, GA; Will McCaskill (Samantha), Jackson McCaskill, and Grace Powell (John) of Nashville, as well as 10 great-grandchildren.

Born in McMinnville, TN on May 24, 1930, he was the son of Lester and Katheryne Smith of Columbia, TN.  Lester graduated from Columbia High School and continued his education at Vanderbilt University, majoring in Electrical Engineering.

He was a founding partner of Smith Seckman Reid Inc., Consulting Engineers.  He served as President of Consulting Engineers of Tennessee and, later, as President of The American Consulting Engineers Council.

Lester spent two years in the Air Force during the Korean War, enjoying the beauty of Alaska while serving. His love of flying developed early – soloing in a plane even before obtaining a driver’s license.  Lester enjoyed hiking, fishing, and camping, preferring to be out of doors.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Calvary United Methodist Church, Ronald McDonald House, Community Care Fellowship or the charity of your choice.

A memorial service is currently being planned around the middle of September. Please check back for updated arrangements.

Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, Nashville, TN (615) 857-9955. We proudly remain locally owned & operated.