Retired Trainer Clay Mann Smith Jr.

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Clay Mann Smith Jr., a retired Southwest trainer, died April 22 of cancer at his ranch near Colorado City, Texas. He was 83.

Smith, who was born at the family ranch founded by his grandfather in 1881, trained from the mid-1960s through 2004 in Texas, New Mexico, Louisiana and in the Northeast. He saddled stakes winners Caloom, Caramel Candy, Clems Alibi, Clems Debby, and Tubby Clay.

Smith, who served as a paratrooper in World War II, was a lifelong rancher and a charter member of the Turtle Association. The organization was the original Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. His survivors include daughters Yolanda and Paula and two stepdaughters.

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