The town of Garland is mourning the passing of longtime Commissioner Sanford Walter “S.J.” Smith Jr., who died on October 27, 2025, at the age of 81. A lifelong resident of Garland, Smith dedicated over four decades to public service, leaving an indelible mark on his community.
Born on August 4, 1944, Smith’s commitment to Garland was evident throughout his extensive career as a commissioner. His contributions included significant infrastructure improvements to public works, roads, buildings, and cemeteries, reflecting his steadfast dedication to enhancing community life. Smith’s leadership style was characterized by quiet determination and a strong work ethic, earning him the respect and admiration of residents across generations.
In his final town meeting in 2020, Smith reflected on his time in office, expressing gratitude for the support he received from the community. He stated, “I appreciate being part of this town where I was born and raised. I also want to thank the residents, friends, and family that believed in me by voting for me to be a part of the decision-making for the greater good of our beloved town.”
His niece, Mary Smith, emphasized her uncle’s work ethic and compassion, saying, “He never stopped trying to do whatever needed to be done and doing for others. My uncle had a heart of gold. If everyone had a heart like his, we wouldn’t have so many problems in the world.”
Garland’s Mayor, Austin Brown, expressed profound sadness over Smith’s passing, highlighting his legacy of leadership and compassion. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Commissioner S.J. Smith. His 40 years of dedicated service to the town of Garland leave a lasting legacy of leadership, integrity, and compassion. Commissioner Smith’s commitment to our community and the people he served will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time,” Brown stated.
Mayor Pro Tem Ralph Smith Jr. also shared his condolences, noting Smith’s long-standing presence on the town board. “S.J. was a dedicated and faithful member of the Garland town board for 30 years. He will be missed by those that had the privilege of knowing him. We extend our deepest sympathy to the family as we remember his many years of service to the town of Garland.”
In addition to his civic contributions, Smith was a founding member and served as president of the South River Hunting Club for over 40 years. Friends and family remember him as a man of humility and generosity, embodying the same sense of duty in every aspect of his life.
Smith is preceded in death by his parents, Sanford Walter Smith Sr. and Mary Lee Bordeaux Smith, his wife, Alice, and three sisters. He is survived by his siblings, Ellen Gray Smith Strickland, Charles Herman Smith, and Garry Wayne Smith, along with numerous nieces and nephews who cherished his guidance and example.
The legacy of Commissioner S.J. Smith serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that dedicated public service can have on a community. His lifetime of commitment has left a permanent mark on the history of Garland.
