Harry Baker Smith, Sr.

Harry Baker Smith Sr. passed away May 22, 2020 of natural causes just 6 days short of his 94th birthday. He was a husband, father and an architect born in Philadelphia and raised in New Orleans. He was known for his creative talent, friendship and his sense of humor. 

He is survived by his wife of 73 years Jean Carroll Smith, his sons Harry (Hank) Baker Smith Jr. (Pam), Scott Galloway Smith (Beth), Jeffrey King Smith (Barbara), daughter Carroll Lane Smith Zehner (Walter). He has 7 grandchildren (Elsbet Hollywood, Alison Smith, Liesl Zehner, MargaretZehner, Greta Zehner, Nathaniel Mince, Ryan Mince) and 2 great grandchildren (Baker and Knox Hollywood).  

He was preceded in death by his youngest daughter Lauren Price Smith Mince, his parents Robert Thomas Smith Sr., Sadie Baker Smith, his brothers Robert Thomas Smith Jr. and Leonard Barnett Smith.  

Harry was a graduate of Alcee Fortier High School and Texas A & M University (Class of 1947) and an officer in the United States Army. After returning to New Orleans on completion of his military service, he joined the architectural firm Perez and Associates to work on the design of The Union Passenger Terminal. He founded Smith and Burns Architects in the early 60s and, his most notable design, was the New Orleans Police Headquarters. He founded Harry Baker Smith Architects in the 70s designing several libraries and branch banks. The name was changed to HBSA II Architects when partnering with oldest son Hank eventually retiring in 2012. Harry loved golf, was a talented artist and a model train enthusiast.  

A celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Please direct condolences to the family in care of HBSA II at 189 Maple Ridge Drive Metairie, Louisiana 70001, hank@hbsaii.com.

 

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