MICHAEL LARIMER SMALLEY
September 24, 1968 — November 28, 2022
A candle that burned brightly and lighted the way for so many for so long flickered for a moment and then burned out on November 28, 2022, when Michael Larimer Smalley, of La Grange, Texas, passed peacefully from the comfort of his earthly home into the loving arms of his Lord, his Savior. Michael was born to Dr. Robert H. and Linda Smalley in Albuquerque New Mexico, on September 24, 1968.
School. He went on to attend Georgetown Southwestern University in Georgetown, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science as well as a Masters of Art Degree in Political Science from Baylor University.
A devout Christian, Michael was always very involved in the Presbyterian Church communities wherever he lived. An ordained elder, he served in many leadership roles at the First Presbyterian Church in La Grange and most recently, First Presbyterian Church, Giddings. Through the church and its ministries, he also, quietly, gave a lot to those in need. A passionate fan of sports, Michael loved watching football, golf and tennis. Michael was an avid hunter and loved spending time on the family ranch.
In 2006, Michael became very involved in the La Grange Noon Lions Club where he served as Club President from 2010-2012, and District Governor for District 2-S5 from 2016-2017. He was the recipient of the District Governor Achievement Award for the Highest Net Gain Membership and Highest Retention in the State of Texas during his 2016-2017 Lions year.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his sister, Jean (Smalley) Davis of Missouri City, TX; and his nephew, Eric Smalley of Waco, TX. His Aunts and Uncles, Nancy and Jack Mason of
Magnolia, TX; and Larry and Paula Delzell of Plano, TX. He was preceded on to glory by his parents, Dr. Robert H. and Linda Smalley. He was widely loved and admired and leaves behind many who will miss him deeply. Michael’s friends and family will always remember his wit, in- telligence, inquisitive nature, selflessness, and tireless dedication to those he loved and protected.
In the words of Irving Berlin, 'The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.'
Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations in La Grange from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with family present at this time to receive friends.
Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, December 4, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 192 S. Grimes St., Giddings, Texas. A private family burial will be held. Honored to serve as pallbearers are: John Mark Brown, Noah Matocha, Dr. Thomas Borgstedte, W.O. Wood, Jimmy Martin and Vernon Bender; along with honorary pallbearers: Leon Scott, Jim Allbright,
Mark Ulrich, Terrell Newton, Gary Zenker, and Chance Atchley.
In lieu of flowers, Michael asked that memorials to Relay for Life, American Cancer Society,
La Grange Chapter, 553 E. Walnut, La Grange, TX 78945; Brazos Valley Hospice, 1048 N. Jefferson, La Grange, TX 78945; Texas Lions Camp, 920 West Point Loop, West Point, TX 78963; Fayette County Deputy Santa, 1646 N. Jefferson St., La Grange, TX 78945; or a charity of your choice.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations, 208 W. Pearl, La Grange, Texas. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com.
His family moved from Lubbock, Texas to La Grange Texas, where Mike would attend high school, graduating from La Grange High