Hollin Wendel Smith

Hollin Wendel Smith, 86, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Wendel was born on March 17, 1939, on the family farm in Bynum, TX to Hollin and Vera Nell (Patterson) Smith.

Wendel grew up in Bynum and Malone, TX. He graduated from Bynum High School, where he earned the title of Bynum’s War Horse from his performance on the football field, which earned him a football scholarship to Ranger Junior College.

He began working in the pipeline industry in 1959, where he learned the industry until he and Carolyn started Eagle Pipeline Construction in 1973. His honesty, integrity, and character helped build the reputation that became Eagle Pipeline. He retired in 2007.

Wendel’s love of horses led him to race thoroughbred racehorses. He had many over the years and traveled to tracks near and far to watch them race. He always had his co-pilot, Justin, by his side.

Wendel and Carolyn married on August 25, 1972. They were happily married for 52 years. They enjoyed their travels to watch Justin play baseball all over the U.S.

Wendel and Carolyn loved spending time at their lake house on Possum Kingdom Lake. Their favorite memories were the weekends they spent with their family & lake neighbors. Wendel especially enjoyed the time he spent with his favorite sister in law, Sue.

Wendel was preceded in death by his father Hollin Smith, his mother Vera Nell Watson and her husband Wiley Watson, sister Barbara Sebastian, and son Stephen Scott Smith.

Wendel is survived by his loving wife Carolyn Smith; son Mike Smith; daughter Terri (Jon) Evans; brother Billy (Kay) Watson; grandson Justin Wendel Bateman, Ethan Smith, Caleb Smith, Kayce Myers; great-grandchildren Kutter, Xaniah, Ryker, Luna, Jorge; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Wendel’s legacy & values will live on Forever.

in lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Humane Society or St Jude.