Patrick Alan Smith

Patrick Alan Smith, 73, of McAlester, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in Tulsa, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born in McAlester to Ralph and Doris (Elkins) Smith, Patrick lived an active life with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Patrick grew up in McAlester, where he quickly found his passion for sports, hunting, fishing, and community. From a young age, he could be found at the local Boys Club. He spent every free moment playing baseball, basketball, football, and running track as well as hunting and fishing. Baseball became his true love—he attended Chandler Baseball Camp as a boy, later serving as a camp counselor, and shined as a talented catcher. 

Ambidextrous, Patrick had a rare gift that helped him earn a scholarship to Knox College in Illinois, where he played both baseball and football. After 2 years of college Pat returned to McAlester. Patrick married his high school sweetheart and neighbor, Patty Painter. He attended the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Academy. His first assignment in 1975 was Oklahoma City Metro, then later Canadian County. In 1982 he became Troop Supervisor. In 1990 he was promoted to Troop Commander for Troop H in Clinton. In 1991 he transferred to Troop D in McAlester. Pat retired as Captain in 2006 after serving 31 years. Retirement was too boring so a year later Pat became an Inspector for Weights and Measurements. 

Pat’s love of sports and the outdoors never left him. He joined Triangle-Pine Creek Hunting Club where he spent almost every hunting season at “the deer” camp. He enjoyed the camaraderie with his fellow hunters and the meals they prepared together. Every Thanksgiving was spent with these special friends. Pat was fortunate to have a best friend from school who was also a fellow trooper and neighbor, Allen Scherman. The two of them spent countless hours hunting, fishing, playing poker, eating, working on projects, and just hanging out. Patrick’s greatest joy, besides hunting and fishing, came from his family and particularly his dogs. A devoted brother, uncle, and great-uncle, he was deeply loved by his nieces and nephews. He gave everyone encouragement and unwavering support. Patrick had a gift for helping others and never hesitated to lend a hand. 

He is survived by his sisters, Linda Smith of Tulsa, Karen Smith Walker of Broken Arrow, and Sharron Smith Puckett (Greg) of Broken Arrow; his niece, Stacey Dalpaos of Krebs; nephews, Michael Robertson (Jamie) of McAlester, Wesley Robertson (Missy) of Ozarka, Missouri, Justin Walker of Midwest City, David Puckett, Scott Puckett (Thi), and James Puckett of Tulsa; great-nieces and nephews, Amelia and Gus Puckett of Broken Arrow; Lexi, Caleb, Tristan, Shelby, and Hayden Robertson of McAlester; and Kaylynn Ashlock of Stuart; great niece and nephew Isabelle and Christopher Little of McAlester; his former spouse, Patty Williams of McAlester; and many other beloved relatives and friends. Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Doris Smith; his sister, Patti Smith Robertson and his brother-in-law Richard.

 Patrick lived life to the fullest with a generous spirit, a great sense of humor, and a heart for others. He was truly an all-around good man—kind, giving, and genuine. His family and friends will forever remember his smile, his chuckles, his loyalty, and his love. Pat gave monthly to the following charities: St Jude’s, Shriners, MD Anderson Cancer, National Children’s Cancer Society, American Heart, Food Bank, Special Olympics, March of Dimes, and Salvation Army. In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of these charities or to a charity of your choosing.

Please join us in a celebration of Pat’s life on October 18, 2025 at Central Christian Church, 920 East Central Avenue, McAlester, Oklahoma at 11:00 am.