| Mr Smith and his wife Janet (Nettie) set up a clothing and household goods business, Alex Smith Stores, in the Hilltown after the second world war. It became something of an institution in the area.
He expanded the business, widely known as “Smithies”, and opened shops in the old Wellgate, Commercial Street, Lochee, Perth, Montrose and Aberdeen.
During the post-war period, Mr Smith turned to furniture manufacturing, and as an innovative entrepreneur provided credit to enable people to afford furniture and clothing when finances were stretched.
In his early 20s, Mr Smith worked for the Dundee Corporation transport department as a delivery clerk before opening his first business — a second-hand furniture shop in Ann Street.
His business interests expanded into finance, insurance, travel and property and became known as the Glamis Group.
Mr Smith’s family were mostly farm labourers during the 1920s, and later ran a small dairy in Lochee.
He almost died in his 40s after developing pneumonia and bronchitis while on a business trip.
His son Ronald said today his father was an “uncompromising and often controversial character” who always chose the most direct route, and was never concerned about falling out with people, but who was widely respected for his tenacity, acumen and drive.
Mr Smith was a member of Invergowrie Parish Church, which was a cornerstone in his life.
He enjoyed walking most days around Invergowrie and Kingoodie, and spent considerable time chatting to his numerous friends.
In his latter years, Mr Smith and his wife spent much of their time at their home in Los Gigantes, Tenerife, where they developed many close friendships.
Mr Smith was predeceased by his wife, and is survived by his three children Sandra, Douglas and Ronald, 11 grandchildren and four great grandchildren. |
