Wayland Smith

Wayland Smith, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and treasured friend, passed away on July 20, 2025, in Copperas Cove, Texas. Born on September 27, 1940, in Sweetwater, Texas, Wayland lived a life rich in love, commitment, and accomplishments that extended far beyond his remarkable 42-year career with the Army's Operational Test Command. Memorial services are scheduled for 10:00 am, Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Grace Bible Church, 1203 Winkler Ave Killeen, TX. Burial will take place at Chandler Memorial Cemetery in Chandler, TX at noon, Sunday, July 27, 2025. Visitation with the family will be 5:00 - 7:00 pm, Friday, July 25, 2025 at Sneed Carnley Funeral Chapel Copperas Cove. 

After graduating from Sweetwater High School in 1959, Wayland pursued his passion for engineering, earning a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from Texas Tech University in 1966 and a Master's degree from A&M University in Industrial Engineering in 1968. His career began as a civilian for the Army, where he dedicated himself to developing and testing innovative equipment and vehicles, most notably the Bradley tank, with a steadfast focus on ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our soldiers during combat. His contributions were recognized with his induction into the Operational Test Command's Hall of Fame, a testament to his hard work and unwavering commitment to excellence. He retired in 2010 as the OTC Director, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by many.

Wayland was much more than an engineer; he was a man of deep compassion and warmth. He fell in love with Linda at first sight in their church in Sweetwater, and their love story blossomed into 64 years of marriage filled with unwavering devotion and mutual respect. Together, they opened their hearts and home to six orphaned children, adopting them and nurturing them with love, instilling within them the values and foundations they would carry into adulthood.

Wayland was not only hardworking and intelligent but also deeply family-oriented. The joy he found in celebrating holidays and special occasions with his loved ones spoke to the essence of his caring personality. He delighted in unwinding by working on cars, and he had a unique ability to fix anything with a twist of ingenuity. His affection for animals, especially goats, added a playful and warm touch to his large family, as he always surrounded himself with beloved pets that brought joy into their lives.

In addition to his family and career, Wayland found solace and excitement in football, passionately cheering for the Texas Tech Red Raiders and the Dallas Cowboys. His recent support for the Kansas City Chiefs, following Patrick Mahomes' rise to stardom, exemplified his spirit of enthusiasm and engagement with the world around him.

Wayland is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Smith, his children Kim Blalock, Claudia Walker (spouse Kevin Walker), Chris Smith (spouse John Schaumburg), Sophia Tczap (spouse James Tczap), Shawn Smith (spouse Aimee Smith), and Heather Price (spouse Chris Knight), along with a loving circle of grandchildren: Katie Blalock, Bekah Walker Garcia (spouse Jesus Garcia), Josh Walker, Jonah Tczap (spouse Melissa Tczap), Lily Smith, Alyssa Smith, Aaron Smith, Sydney Knight, Ty Knight, Lindsey Price, Heath Price, and one great grandson, Micah Blue. He also leaves behind his dear aunt, Ann Smith.

Wayland is preceded in death by his parents Cleave and Stella Smith, his sister Sherry Mahoney, and his cherished niece and nephews, Lindsey Bromley, Melissa Mahoney, and Chad Mahoney.

As we remember Wayland Smith, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life steeped in love, dedication to family, and a legacy of service and achievement. His spirit will forever reside in the hearts of those he touched, guiding and inspiring them in the days to come.