George R Smith, SR. August 1, 1931 – September 17, 2013
George R. Smith, 82, of Madison, passed away at his home Tuesday surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Martha, and their three children, George Jr., Rhonda, and Russell. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Michael, Matthew, Katie, and Phillip.
George’s profession and passion was aeronautical engineering. He attended Auburn University, where he met his wife Martha, and graduated in 1954. George designed components for first generation satellites, missile systems, and remotely piloted airplanes for the military. As a boy, he built and flew control line airplanes. As a young lieutenant in the Air Force, he built a working model of a turbojet engine on a small hobby lathe. Later he built one of the early Heathkit radio control sets, became an RC model airplane enthusiast, building, designing, and publishing designs for sport and acrobatic models. He was a longstanding member and officer of two local RC clubs.
George had a beautiful singing voice, performing in high school, university and church choirs and ensembles. He also played a major part in a Huntsville Community Chorus production of the Mikado.
There will be a private graveside service.
The family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or the Downtown Rescue Mission in George’s memory.
