Born in Eagle Lake and known as the last of the Black Hat Rangers, Zeno Smith worked as a cowboy and rancher and in his family's meat market before becoming a Texas Ranger in 1935, following his grandfather and older brother. During a 34-year career, he was credited with solving some of the biggest crime cases in South Texas, and in 1958 he testified before a U.S. Senate Committee on Labor Crimes. Much of his Ranger service was in San Antonio, where he was known as fair but always direct while serving the citizens of Texas. At his retirement, a Texas House Resolution praised his notable record and outstanding service as a dedicated, loyal, and capable officer. He is buried next to his wife, Leona, in Nixon Cemetery in Gonzales County.