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Fred Smith was born in Hamlet, Indiana on December 30, 1921. He was reared in Chicago, attending high school there, and playing clarinet in the band. Fred attended the University of Illinois, studying with A. A. Harding. Following graduation, he remained at the university as assistant band director while working on his master's degree.

Fred's first public school job was at Odessa Junior High, where he spent three years. This position was followed by two years as head of the Music Department at Odessa College. Fred served the next 21 years as band director of Brownfield High School. During this time his bands won numerous UIL Sweepstakes awards in addition to many honors in other festivals. He taught for many years at the Texas Tech and McMurry summer band camps
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Fred was an active member of Phi Beta Mu. He served as Vice-President and President of the Alpha Chapter, and served for four years on the national board. He was also a member of Phi Mu Alpha, Kappa Kappa Psi, TBA and TMEA. He was a member of the TMEA State Board for 6 years. Fred hosted numerous UIL contests in Brownfield and was called on extensively to adjudicate.

Fred taught because he loved the teenage youth. His belief was "band makes for better citizenship". He offered his students social recreation and a chance to experience democracy in action, as well as musical experiences.

Fred was very active in both church and community affairs. He died August 3, 1972