Thomas "Bruce" Smith

Thomas “Bruce” Smith, 81, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, passed away on July 2, 2025, after a long battle with complications from Agent Orange. Bruce was born on August 27, 1943, in Marianna, Florida to Thomas and Matti “Orene” Smith. The family moved to Albuquerque when he was 6 years old so they could pursue missionary work. After Bruce graduated from Rio Grande High School, he joined the Navy with a friend of his and served 7 years as a radarman, doing two tours in Vietnam. Bruce married the love of his life, Theresa Garcia, on July 16, 1966. They welcomed their 2 children: Christopher Paul, born November 11, 1967, and Meredith Orene, born October 25, 1972. Meredith married Carlos Montoya, on July 12, 1997, and they welcomed their daughter, Camille Claire, on September 8, 2001.

After being honorably discharged, Bruce worked in the auto industry until his retirement in 2005. He also served his Lord as an ordained minister since 1977. He served in many church communities as led by the Holy Spirit. Bruce was the spiritual leader for his family and his extended family. He helped to lead many of them to come to know and serve the Lord.

Bruce’s family was very important to him. He was very proud that his children and grandchild all graduated college and tried his best to support them in all their endeavors. Bruce was an avid sports fan who followed many teams. He loved reading westerns and mysteries but mostly loved reading and studying his Bible.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Mabel Orene Cook, brother-in-law, Larry Cook, his nephew, David Cook, mother-in law, Olivia Garcia, father-in-law, Porfirio Garcia, brother-in-law, Porfirio Garcia jr., and brother-in-law, Manuel Garcia.

Bruce is survived by his wife, Theresa, son, Christopher, daughter Meredith (Carlos), granddaughter, Camille, nephews, Rodger Cook (Sherri) and Lee Cook. Sisters-in-law, Maryann Gutierrez, Rosalie Barboa (Charles), and Louisa Lucero (Ronnie), and Brother-in-law, Ricky Garcia (Jane), and many great, great-great, and great-great-great nephews and nieces.

There will be a graveside service in Santa Fe, New Mexico at the National Cemetery. The exact date will be determined later.