Please share your stories about “Pop.” We know you have several—we all do. We would like to capture them here to share with family and friends and to celebrate Pop’s life!
Visitation, funeral and burial information are on the “Home” page.
Scroll to the bottom to enter your story.
From some of your emails over the past few days (I hope you don’t mind me sharing these here):
I am so grateful for the short time I have known Chester and the experiences
on Sundown Island. He inspires everyone to do amazing things to improve
the habitat of the island for the birds he loves. A remarkable family is
evidence of the kind of man he is.
Thank You Chester,
Diane D Nunley (Friend and Sundown Island Volunteer)
Dear Tim -
Thank you for your messages.
I am so very sad for us, but so happy for Pop that he is ambling toward his new life.
I am picturing our God welcoming him into heaven with a big hug and a hearty “Well done my good and faithful servant”.
It’s a beautiful picture! Pop is a fighter that’s for sure and we’d sure rather him stay with us, but maybe the time is coming for his reward. I continue to be deeply honored to be considered his friend.
Peace to you all.
Lynn (Friend and Sundown Island Volunteer)
Chester has been a wonderful role model for all of us. Such determination to live a full life doing things that make a difference.
Winnie Burkett (Friend and Fellow Audubon Warden)
Friendswood & the Bolivar Peninsula
Thanks for the update. I wish him the best of send offs He had a great life. His stroke mirrors my dad’s last summer almost exactly in terms of what the stroke did. He would have been 4 molder than Chester…My thoughts are with your family.
Brush (Friend and Sundown Island Volunteer)
Having met Pop years ago and being fond of that Island myself, I am certain that he would want everyone to put their energy in continuing his work–to sustain and build a safe place for the birds of Sundown Island, Bird Island to us in POC. I want to use his example as a model of determination and service.
Larry Vaughn (Friend and Co-Founder of Quality Leadership Resources, Inc.)
I will pray for the best. For me, Pop has been closest to the “real” grandfather I never had.
Steve Tripp (Friend and Sundown Island Volunteer)
Tim,
Abe Moore here from Texas Parks & Wildlife Television. We worked
together on his story a couple years ago. Sorry to hear the news, I hope
he is feeling better. Know that the entire staff here in the Communications
Division is praying for him and we will keep him in our thoughts.
Let me know if we can help with anything, Abe
Hi Tim:
I’m very sorry to hear about it, but we’ll definitely be thinking about him
and hoping the best for recovery. Please keep me posted, and let him know
the birds are praying for him too.
Thanks
David (Friend and Environmental Scientist)
My favorite story about Chester is how I met him. I discovered Sundown Island by going on a tour of the La Salle shipwreck excavation in March, 1997. The captain (Greggory, I think) of the excursion boat took us on a quick tour of Sundown Island. I had just read “Jurassic Park” and in that context, the in flying inhabitants of Sundown Island seemed quite prehistoric. The island inhabitants were very active, carrying nesting material to and fro—gearing up for breading season. My “birding switch” was turned on that day! I asked how I could get more information about the island. The captain told me that I could find Chester in the POC phone book, or ask nearly anyone in town how to reach him.
I called and Chester invited me to come see him in POC—which just happened to be during their family July 4th gathering! Susie, Peggy and Connie took me under their wings—and helped me navigate all of the kinfolks. I told Chester that I wanted to volunteer and help with the Sundown Island project. Before I knew it, he had projects lined up for me! I have watched him work his magic on other volunteers over the years, both with admiration and astonishment.
I have often said to friends, that I wanted to grow-up and be like Chester. I’m still working on it! His enthusiasm about nature, his birds, fishing, his family, and more is infectious. He is always be in my heart!
Marcy Crowe Spears
Pop Smith forever endeared himself to me when as a little girl he allowed my family open door visits to his Port’oConner home. He taught me how to gig flounder and let me ride the big lawn-mower, and steer a boat and showed me all the different kinds of birds and their eggs on the protected bird sanctuary island and he & Sis. Smith made the most incredible breakfasts. I could go on and on but let me just say that those little “mini-vacays” are some of the best memories I have from my childhood. Better yet, he gave my parents an incredible legacy in what it meant to be a Christian that I feel has been passed on to me. Always patient, always sweet and gentle – I love this man and am forever grateful for the blessing of his life and how it intersected with mine.
To the man who has inspired us and the world to reginize the wonderful place that Sundown Island is and for our endless hours we would talk about his plans for the island and how I would try to make them happen. Even in a small way.
Barbara Van Horn (Sundown Island Volunteer)
What can I say Chester but “Thank You” for epitomizing what it means to be a wildlife steward. For inspiring me and so many others to work tirelessly toward nurturing a sanctuary that supports such beautiful life. Thank you for dedicating the last 24 years to creating a special island, a special nursery, which every year welcomes home your winged friends. I promise to keep up the good work and continue to be motivated by your example.
Audubon should rename that island the CHESTER SMITH ISLAND. Without the determination, creativity, enthusiasm, drive and energy Chester generated for the island and the pelicans, we wouldn’t have the former — and maybe not the latter. . Chester was superman in coveralls and a ball cap – with a fun twinkle in his eyes.
Jim,
That is the first thing that my husband, Frank, said when I told him that Chester passed away. I agree!
Marcy
I’ll second that notion too Jim. If it weren’t for Chester there wouldn’t be a Sundown Island as it stands today!
Steve
Mum – the following email is from yesterday morning; it is a great tribute to Pop from Greg Steele, and I thought you and the family would appreciate how he described Pop.
Randy Fluitt
From: Greg Steele [mailto:Greg@jchomechurch.com]
Sent: Saturday, June 25, 2011 8:13 AM
To: Fluitt, Randy
Subject: RE: Pops update tonight
Thanks for the update… we will miss Pop. He was such a great man who lived a full and satisfying life. He is a legend, he is one of the most positive men with the most positive attitude I ever met. To those of his family that I know, he did a great job of passing who he was to all of them. He sure loved God’s creation, enjoyed it and took care of it but more than anything he loved Jesus and his church. It was his heartbeat…. Oh that we could have more Pop Smith’s in the world, what a great place it would be!! I am so glad that you and Bonnie connected me to him! Please pass along to Bonnie how much we love and appreciate Pop and Mumie and all her family. We are praying for you all, but really it is more of a celebration.
gs
To my number-one hero; my idol, mentor, and biggest fan. Thanks for teaching me so many great things: how to fish, flounder, duck hunt, and navigate the waters of Port O’ Connor. But most importantly, how to live a happy and successful life.
I will never forget the four passions you said to value and hold dearly:
1. God and Church – to always give thanks, attend church, and be a part of God’s work. In your case, it was participating in the building of many churches.
2. A Good Wife and Family – You were first to admit Grandma was the best thing that ever came your way. Family functions were a priority, because you loved and cherished every one of us.
3. The Outdoors – you loved fishing, floundering and hunting. You loved God’s creations; the birds and wildlife.
4. A Gratifying Job – you showed us how to work hard, while reminding us to always balance work, church and family.
Pop, you have truly been a great example for all of us. You have never steered me wrong… well maybe a time or two at midnight trying to get to lighthouse cove for second-half floundering. Even though no man will ever be able to fill your shoes, I will strive to keep Port O’ Connor and your legacy alive. I know you’ll keep things plenty alive in Heaven until we meet up with you there again. So Pop, thanks again, and we love you greatly!
Trevan
Many, many years ago Connie Knepp said to me “You should meet my dad. He’d make a good story for your newspaper” and I’m so glad she did.
I met Chester and wrote about him a few times back then but then last year I made the trip out to the island to photograph birds and finally gained a true appreciation for what Chester has done out there, with a lot of help from the volunteers that he was so good at inspiring.
I got great photographs on that trip and the visit I made there this spring, though Chester said I needed a bigger lens so I wouldn’t have to work so hard to get the shots.
I invited him to come see some of those photos in the Baytown Art Show, which was just a couple weeks ago, and he turned up at the reception and made my day. I was so glad to see him, to introduce him around as the Audubon warden of the island where I’d shot the photos and to show him that despite my current not-long-enough lens, I did get some great shots. Of course, with access to Sundown Island during nesting season, who wouldn’t get great photos?!
When they list Chester’s survivors for the obituary, they need to include more than just his big wonderful family … he’s also survived by the tens of thousands of brown pelicans that he helped to save, along with the many other species that he’s lent a helping hand to, and to the people whose spirits he lifted – and in some cases, probably changed their lives – just by making them a part of his work on the island and a part of something bigger than themselves.
Thanks Chester. You’re a man who has made a difference in so many ways and I’m honored to have known you.
-Jane Howard Lee
I learned that during life you meet many people, but only a few who really impact your life and you never forget them. Brother Smith was one of these people in my life. He taught me to drive in that old white Ford station wagon he used to drive, the lord was with us and we both lived through 1977. He taught me to use a chalk line and other tools while building the church in La Porte. How to properly drive a nail, and what not to say when you miss and hit your thumb. The fishing trips and duck hunts I remember them all. I never heard him say a bad word about anyone. We lost touch over the years but I will never lose the memories or the respect for one of the most respected men I will ever have the privalege of knowing.
Terry Ganey
I remember staying with Pop for a whole week during my Spring Break when I was a teenager. It was just me and Brett with Pop. We worked so hard every day for Pop, then went floundering at night. I remember Brett trying to dig up a tree and he was so strong (or the shovel so old) that the shovel broke in two and Pop was so frustrated with Brett…it was hilarious. I felt like I had to cook each night because I was the only girl. One night we were having fish, so I looked in the cupboard and found some pinto beans. Pop was sitting in the living room (in the old house) and I said very loudly, “Pop, you want these beans for dinner?” and he replied “No, it’s just too windy to go tonight”……..
I remember asking Pop if I could ask Bonnie to marry me, but he said “not until she turns 18″. After that, the next step in the process was for me to learn about “floundering”, so he took me to Galveston Island where we walked the sandy beaches with lanterns for several hours without seeing one. He then drew an outline of a flounder in the sand with the two eyes on the one side and said, “we should have gone to Port O’Connor where we would have already gigged several by now”. In time, Pop introduced me to Port O’Connor, where I decided I also wanted to establish some roots for my children and grandchildren. Thanks Pop for welcoming me into your family and also sharing part of your paradise with all the Fluitt family.
LOL, Tiffany! That’s a good one. Pop asked Susie “what does that LOL mean”!
He had selective hearing and a one tract mind – life was all about floundering to the bitter end!!!
From: Joseph D Haney
Subject: A Prince’s Promotion to a Higher Realm
Dear Ilet, Danny and girls,
Although we knew it would happen, yet we were so sorry to hear about
Chuck’s passing this morning. However, we were so thankful we were able
to attend his 90th BD party and see him enjoying it all. What a prince
of a man he was!
Love,
Joe and Melba (from Ilet’s younger brother and sister-in-law)
As I read through the comments left by others, I hardly know what to say. I can truly agree though, Pop was a legend. I met him through his grandsons – Jeremy and Brett Cecil. Somehow or another we were invited down to go duck hunting with them. I vividly recall Pop coming through the halls to wake us up way before I was ready. After a quick breakfast, we loaded into the boat and were off to Matagorda island. With nothing but a spotlight in his hand, Pop guided us safely across the wind tossed bay. I’d never been on anything bigger than a small lake, and was extremely nervous to say the least, but as mentioned above, he guided us safely to our destination. I cherish the memories that were created with this man. There was never a doubt about how he felt about God and family and friends. I’ve told many people that I know, if I can ever be anything when I grow up, I want to be like Pop Smith. To me, he was the epitome of a Christian and an outdoorsman.
To the family (mumie, Bro & Sis Cecil, Jeremy, Brett, and all the others), let us know that he has safely reached the other shore. The master has guided him safely across the seas of his life, just like he took me so many years ago. We love y’all and will be praying for your family.
Jeremy Boothe
I have so many fond memories of Chester & his beloved Bird Island. One of the most vivid I guess is the “day I spent a week” on the island with Chester and a film crew from National Geographic’s Explorer t.v. show documenting the toll fire ants were taking on the bird population. I was covering the story for the Port Lavaca Wave and I must have walked around the island at least 10 times following behind Chester & the film crew…it was hard for all of us to keep up with “Pops!” He was the youngest “old man” I think I have even had the honor to know & I feel most honored that he considered me his friend. My wife Pam and I will truly miss Chester and it makes my heart ache to know I will never be able to walk his island with him again in this life…but I take great comfort in the knowledge that he is now with his Lord & Saviour, watching over all of us & his beloved birds and island from a much higher vantage point! Rest in Peace my friend.
Steve & Pam Bales
I met Poppy Smith when I turned 15. Our family had just moved to LaPorte.TX and I thought it was so cool that his youngest girls Robbie and Peggy called their dad “Poppy” and I called my dad “Pops”, we became close friends Robbie and I, and have remained so all these years. I was always in awe of Poppy and his calm demeanor and his true christian character never waivered. I like so many, loved him as if he were part of my family. Mummy and her homemade noodles simmering ….awesome memories of the Poppy Smith home.
On behalf of Audubon Texas, I’m writing to share our deepest sympathy for Chester’s passing. What a great man!
We pay tribute to Chester’s amazing committment to conserving Sundown Island and all the life that inhabitated this coastal treasure. He lead the charge for more than 24-years to improve the plight of the many birds species that made Sundown and nearby islands home for part of the year – including the iconic Brown Pelican.
His passion, hard-work, and dedication were un-matched. We honor him and also thank those that loved to work with him: including family, friends, and volunteers. He will be missed and will be remember fondly forever!
God Speed Pop – rest in peace.
Bob Benson
Executive Director
Audubon Texas
I’ve known Mr. Smith for many years through my work at Community Resource Credit Union. He was always ready to share stories of his birds, and how they were thriving. He was such a joy to visit with and he always had a smile to share with me.
It’s sad knowing I won’t see him in the office any more; but joyful to know he’s in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
Gob bless all of his family. May His love and your memories bring you peace
Sharon McKinzie
Chester became my Uncle when I married his grand-nephew Donnie Spencer. Donnie’s grandmother was Chuck’s sister Opal. The summer we got married, way back in 1988, Donnie took me to my first Smith family reunion. That first meeting I was lovingly accepted and have been so blessed ever since. I got quite close to Chuck when Donnie and I lived in the “old pink house” in POC. Since I was the sports editor at The Wave you can guess what I got enlisted into doing? Writing about bird island. It was in its infancy back then. what great things have been accomplished since then. I have too many memories to post, but I have chosen two. If anyone remembers Glen’s cabin, and later Bobby’s, you will remember how small it was. Donnie and I were working in Port Lavaca and living in the house. Periodically, Bobby began wanting to do some remodeling, he was half Smith after all, and he would come down and work on the house with Donnie and Chuck if he was in town. Well, one day Donnie and I come home from work and Chuck had built us a closet!!! We had no idea he was gonna do that. It sure came in handy the night the tornado touched down behind the house and tore a small trench and then jumped the fence into the Braman’s pasture. The other great memory is how Chuck would come down during the week by himself and come over as soon as he saw us drive up from work and ask, “What’s for dinner?” He liked to pretend he only had sandwiches to eat!! I’ll never forget floundering or going out and gathering and eating oysters right out in the bay. I can’t wait to see the remodeling and new additions we gonna see in Heaven!!!
Thank you for sharing Tim. He was a heck of a man! He was one of the most interesting, rich and colorful characters I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. When talking with him, I always felt like he had just stepped out of the pages of a Hemingway novel. He always carried himself with poise, confidence, and enough grit to let you know he wasn’t messing around. He achieved what I know I want for my life….. to have extracted every drop of life from every experience on earth, leaving behind a bank of stories and memories with my loved ones and friends that would rival any best seller. He fought the good fight, he finished his work here……………and his legacy lives on.
Kyle Alston
TideWater Properties, LLC.
Custom Homes/Coastal Property
512.659.4754 mob
361.727.9630 ofc
512.532.0300 fx
http://www.tidewatertexas.com
Tim, printing all these messages off for Mum. Thanks for all you have done to bring us into the 21st century, technically.
I had the privilege to meet Pop through my involvement in the Sundown Island project during my time with Devon Energy. He was a fine man – friendly, knowledgeable and committed. His passing is a sad event but the positive influence he had on so many others will preserve his memory and encourage the continuing conservation efforts on Sundown Island.
copied from Houston Chronicle Guest Book…
June 28, 2011
Precious, godly man and an example to all who knew Him of loving God and the people around him. God bless the Chester Smith Family. Gwen Lee Dotson/Baytown, TX
~
Gwendolyn Dotson,
Baytown, Texas
|
June 28, 2011
an example to us all pop was a great steward to the land and the church. he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
~
Cindy Austin,
Baytown, Texas
|
June 28, 2011
Chester was “an original”. I enjoyed knowing him for 35 years, and being one of his many volunteers on Sundown Island. I also am proud to have been one of his seven son-in-laws. He will be greatly missed.
~
Tim Wilkinson,
Sugar Land, Texas
copied from Crespo & Jirrels Memory Book…
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On behalf of Audubon Texas, I’m writing to share our deepest sympathy for Chester’s passing. What a great man!
We pay tribute to Chester’s amazing committment to conserving Sundown Island and all the life that inhabitated this coastal treasure. He lead the charge for more than 24-years to improve the plight of the many birds species that made Sundown and nearby islands home for part of the year – including the iconic Brown Pelican.
His passion, hard-work, and dedication were un-matched. We honor him and also thank those that loved to work with him: including family, friends, and volunteers. He will be missed and will be remember fondly forever!
God Speed Pop – rest in peace.
Bob Benson
Executive Director
Audubon Texas
Posted by: Bob Benson – Austin, TX – Colleague Jun 27, 2011
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My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Thankful for all the good memories I have.
Posted by: Anita Simmons Hay – Albany, KY – friend Jun 27, 2011
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I’ve known Mr. Smith for many years through my work at Community Resource Credit Union. He was always ready to share stories of his birds, and how they were thriving. He was such a joy to visit with and he always had a smile to share with me.
It’s sad knowing I won’t see him in the office any more; but joyful to know he’s in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
Gob bless all of his family. May His love and your memories bring you peace
Sharon McKinzie
Posted by: Sharon McKinzie Jun 28, 2011
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Words fall short of expressing my sorrow. I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy are with you and your family . May God Bless you and sustain you through these difficult times.
Sincerly,
Martha Ortiz
Posted by: Martha Ortiz – Friend Jun 29, 2011
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Just saw the obituary today. I would have been at the memorial service if I had known. So sorry for your loss. I have wonderful memories of your entire family, church, Port O’Connor, etc. My prayers are with you.
Posted by: Jeanne Bertram Shipp – Baytown, TX – friend Jul 05, 2011