Richard Amos Smith

1931 - 2019

Richard A. Smith, of Independence, MO, lived from May 30, 1931 to March 12, 2019. He was born to Edward L. and Elizabeth B. Smith in Lancaster, Ohio.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Edward L. Smith, Jr.; daughters, Donna E. Parker and Alisa K. Williams.

He was raised on his parent's farm in Bremen, Ohio, until he attended Graceland College. There he met his lovely wife, Remmonia Clidene Kettner. They were married on September 1, 1950 and shared 68 plus years together. They raised 5 children, during which time Dick served his country in the Army Reserves. He was ordained in the RLDS church at age 16 and actively continued his ministry until death. His ministry found him traveling extensively thru the United States, Europe, and Central America.

Trained as a tool and dye maker, he worked for Sheffield Steel and TWA. He was a business owner, got a degree in Engineering, and became a Process Engineer for the Ford Motor Company. He retired after 24 years.

Richard is survived by his wife, Clidene; daughters, Nancy A. (Charles E.) Baker, Debra S. (David C.) Harper, and Juston A. (Rachel) Smith. He had 7 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandson. Surviving siblings are Joan (Gerald) Wade and Joseph M. (Sandie) Smith of Ohio, and Edna L. (Kenneth) Tucker of Independence. He touched the lives of many, was deeply loved by family and had a full and interesting life.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 17th from 6-8:00 p.m. with a funeral service on Monday, March 18th at 1:00 p.m., both at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Interment with full military honors will follow at Mound Grove Cemetery in Independence.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Speaks Suburban Chapel; 816-373-3600.