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FROM STAFF REPORTS

MONTEVALLO – Dr. Wendell Franklin Smith, a towering presence in both stature and spirit, passed away on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 15, at the age of 84. A retired professor and former chairman of the Department of Communication Science & Disorders at the University of Montevallo, Dr. Smith—known affectionately to many as “Dr. Wendell”—left a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues through his intellect, compassion and unwavering dedication to service.

Born on Aug. 20, 1940, in Seminole, Oklahoma, Wendell was raised in Sylacauga, where his love of music took root. He studied piano with a local teacher and played viola in the high school orchestra—an early sign of his deep appreciation for the arts. That passion led him to Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas, on a last-minute music scholarship. There, he met Carol Lee Chambers, the woman who would become the love of his life and his devoted partner for nearly five decades.

Early in his career as a music educator, Wendell discovered a calling in speech pathology—a field that would shape his professional life. He earned his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, and eventually returned to Alabama to join the faculty at the University of Montevallo. His work as a professor and later department chair was marked by excellence in teaching, mentorship and leadership.

His influence on campus extended beyond the classroom. Whether through his thoughtful lectures, his signature black Volkswagen Beetle or his towering 6’8” frame, Dr. Wendell became a campus icon. He was awarded the prestigious Founders’ Day Award for Outstanding Commitment to Teaching and served as the university’s Academic Grand Marshal—a recognition of both his scholarship and spirit.

But perhaps his greatest legacy was the way he lived: with humility, purpose and deep faith.

Wendell’s Christian convictions shaped every chapter of his life. He served joyfully in various church roles—singing in the choir at Independent Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, being ordained as an elder at Evangel Church PCA in Alabaster and serving on the board of Evangel Classical Christian School. After retiring, he and Carol devoted themselves to travel, family and lifelong friendships, continuing their shared commitment to service wherever they were called.

After Carol’s passing in 2013, Wendell remained in Calera until moving to Dallas in 2021 to be closer to his children and grandchildren. In his final years, he found community at Providence Presbyterian Church, where he delighted in watching his son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter lead worship.

Wendell was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol, and his parents, Cloyd and Thelma Smith. He is survived by his children, Jonathan Randolph Smith (Jill) of Dallas, Texas, and Sarah Elizabeth Kelley of Andalusia, Alabama; six grandchildren—Austin Luke Kelley, Brighton Nathaniel Smith, Savannah Faith Kelley, Jenna Marguerite Smith, Ashland Grace Kelley and Hudson Samuel Kelley—as well as four brothers and a sister.

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, July 1, at Evangel Church PCA in Alabaster. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dr. Wendell’s memory may be made to the University of Montevallo (montevallo.edu/give/momentum), the American Cancer Society (donate.cancer.org) or Providence Presbyterian Church (providencedallas.givingfire.com)—reflecting his lifelong commitment to education, faith and compassion.

Dr. Wendell Smith’s life was a testament to the quiet power of service, the joy of learning, and the enduring strength of love. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.