Baine Paul Smith

Baine Paul Smith, loving son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, grandson, cousin and dear friend to many was reunited with his mother in Heaven on Sunday, the 9th of January, 2022.

Born on the 19th of January, 1991, in Houston, Texas, to Trey and Belinda, he was the youngest of two sons and made the Smith family of four complete.

Baine was preceded in death by his loving mother Belinda Diane Berryman Smith, grandfather Joseph Lorn “Bud” Smith, Jr., and beloved cavalier king charles spaniels Rebel and Bug.

Baine is survived by his father, Joseph Lorn Smith III (Trey); brother Joseph Lorn Smith IV (Lorn), sister-in-law Jessie Hitzing, and nephew Quinn Smith (age 2 mos.); grandmother Othella Smith of Kilgore, Texas; uncle Scott Smith, and cousins Zach and Raven of Kilgore, Texas; aunt Pam Early (Randy) of Kilgore and cousin Cameron Early (Jason) of Boonton, NJ; grandparents Wayne and Bitsy Berryman of Tyler, Texas; Uncle Mike Berryman (Karen) of Richardson, Texas; cousin Ben Berryman (Lauren) and sons Luke and Beau of Dallas, Texas; cousin Matt Berryman (Cameron) of Dallas, Texas; canine companions Beckley and Boone; and many dear friends who Baine thought of as family, which are too numerous to list.

Baine grew up in Northwest Houston’s Copperfield neighborhood where he met many of his lifelong friends. Some of Baine’s favorite memories involved running around with the rest of the Garden Hill gang. Baine attended West Houston Church of Christ where he was consistently a favorite among parents, pastors and Sunday school teachers alike. He had a kind, gentle, and trustworthy soul that attracted people almost instantly. Baine’s infectious smile could cheer you up on your worst days. He was a leader among his friends, often responsible for bringing people together and making sure they were entertained, which was never difficult given his wicked sharp-sense of humor.

Baine was a 2009 graduate of Langham Creek High School. He began his college career studying finance at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas and then attended Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio before settling-in at Texas A&M University – Galveston where he graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Maritime Business Administration. Baine’s dedication to his studies and appetite for learning was admired by his professors—so much so that some kept in touch with him for years following graduation.

Baine began his professional career with Enterprise Products as a Merchant Mariner and USCG-licensed tankerman where he enjoyed a year on the intracoastal waterways of the Southern U.S. After his time on the water, Baine was transferred to the Trading Floor at Enterprises’ downtown Houston Headquarters where he worked as a commodity trading and inventory analyst.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Baine subsequently transitioned to a career in commercial real estate where he served as a Vice President for Focus Commercial Real Estate. While at Focus, Baine had the opportunity to work closely with two very special clients, Fikes Wholesale, Inc. and Phillips 66. It was through numerous, and often complex, transactions and executive interactions that Baine became a highly capable dealmaker who could hold his own in a room full of industry veterans. Over the years Baine’s charming demeanor turned many client relationships into friendships.

Baine showed a love for the outdoors at an early age. It didn’t matter what he was doing, if he was in an open field with clear skies—he was happy. Trey, Lorn, and Baine went on countless hunting and fishing trips over the years where Baine forged many wonderful memories with friends, both old and new. He particularly loved their fishing trips to Matagorda Bay.

Baine’s interest in outdoor activities included flying and boating. Baine earned his private pilot’s license during his senior year of high school (August 2009) prior to departing for college. He loved being in the sky and logged many flight hours during his twenties. Most recently in August 2021, Baine fulfilled his U.S. Coast Guard requirements for his 100-ton Master’s Captain License.

Baine had recently formed a limited liability company for a new business venture focused on maritime adventures and excursions. There is no doubt that he would have been wildly successful in that endeavor.

There are so many things Baine’s family and friends will miss about him. Starting with his caring nature and generous spirit—he never missed an opportunity to check in with a loved one or send words of encouragement. His ability to have fun no matter the circumstances was something to be admired. His quick wit and quips will be sorely missed. Even when you were the intended target of his rapier wit, you couldn’t help but laugh. It was always easy to laugh with Baine because you could feel his love no matter what.

The family is comforted knowing Baine has been reunited with his sweet mother, who he has missed deeply for the past 17 ½ years. Baine’s passing was 10 days shy of his 31st birthday but we know he will celebrate with Belinda in Heaven.

Baine’s Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday January 17, 2022 at the Memorial church of Christ located at 900 Echo Lane, Houston, Texas. The family will then gather for a private burial at Klein Funeral Park in Tomball, Texas. Honored to serve as pallbearers during the services are Cory Campbell, Travis Dodson, Michael Hays, Andrew Keily, Mike Mason, Austin Matt, Kevin McDonald, Michael Sahinen, and Stewart Steele. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Brodie Armstrong, Randy Fralix, Bruce Koger, JA Kopfer, Raymond, Ryan & Logan Smith, and Tyler Stone.

Due to multiple at-risk family members, and for the health and wellness of others, the family asks that you do not attend Baine’s Celebration of Life unless you are fully vaccinated (or naturally immunized) against COVID-19. For those who are unable to attend, Baine’s Celebration will be streamed online using the “Memorial Church of Christ Houston” YouTube channel.

In lieu of customary remembrances, and for those desiring, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to the Baine Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund at Texas A&M University – Galveston; or to a canine rescue organization of your choice.
Make checks payable to “Texas A&M Foundation”
Indicate “Baine Smith Memorial Scholarship” on the memo line.

Mail to:
Texas A&M University - Galveston
c/o the Development Office
P.O. Box 1675
Galveston, Texas 77553

If you wish to make a gift Online, please visit www.tamug.edu and follow the instructions for “Giving” and the sub-tab for “Donate Online”.