Dr. Albert F. SmithDeceased March 09, 2011 Jacksonville, FloridaDr. Albert Smith passed away after a long and meaningful life. He was a loving family man, a well-respected chemist and a major contributor of modern world advancements. Dr. Smith was born on June 16, 1913 in Mulhull, Oklahoma. He began his long and respected academic career in a one room schoolhouse in rural Oklahoma where his future potential was noted at a very young age. He graduated from Guthrie High School as class salutatorian in a class of 80 students at the unprecedented age 14. He began his college education at Oklahoma A & M (now Oklahoma State University) and completed his BS degree in chemical engineering as class valedictorian at the age of 18. Albert Smith then pursued an advanced degree in chemistry from the University of Illinois and successfully attained his PhD at the age of 22! His academic achievements included many awards and honors. Albert was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi and Phi Lambda Epsilon, as well as, Sigma Tau and Sigma Xi. He was also awarded the Oklahoma State University Blue Key given annually to alumni with the most outstanding achievements. Dr Smiths professional career spanned over 30 years with leading industry giant E.I. DuPont De Nemours & Company in Wilmington, Delaware as Director of the Carothers Research Laboratory. There his contributions included but were not limited to the invention, development, production, and improvements of synthetic fibers. He held 17 patents notably for work in the development of base tire cord (rayon) used during World War II for aircraft tires, as well as, toothbrush bristles, fire retardant materials and numerous and substantial other items.Dr. Smith was listed in American Men and Women of Science and Whos Who in American Politics. While in Delaware he was very active and influential in the Delaware Republican Party and served as Chairman of the Brandywine Hundred Republican Committee. He was Acting State Chairman and a delegate to the National Republican Convention for 4 years. Smith also served as chairman of the Rural New Castle Republican Committee and chairman for the Delaware River & Bay Authority. A staunch believer in education, Dr. Smith has sponsored numerous collage scholarships and created and personally funded the Smith Oklahoma Mu Scholarship Fund which is still in place today. He retired to Jacksonville where he could enjoy sailing throughout the Caribbean, dancing and playing bridge. He loved to travel and, as he used to say, play a poor game of golf. He is survived by his loving wife, Mahdia, daughter, Patricia, extended Family and Many wonderful Friends. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that contributions be made to the Unitarian Church, 7405 Arlington Expressway,Jacksonville, FL 32211 in His name.A memorial service will be held in Jacksonville, FL at Deerwood Country Club on 16 April from 12-3PM. For further information or to RSVP Please contact James Fortier at 324 Old Route 1 Hancock, ME 04640 (207)-422-1048. Arrangements are by Helm-Gallagher Funeral Home & Cremation Services 904-284-9696. On-line condolences may be left at www.helmgallagherfh.com. hide