Edward Ray Smith

Edward Ray Smith 
January 15, 1931 – July 15, 2025

Edward Ray Smith, of Plano, Illinois, passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital.

Ed spent most of his life in Plano. He attended Blackburn College in Carlinville, Illinois, where he met and later married his college sweetheart, M. Helen Mullinax. They shared 66 wonderful years together until her passing in 2020.

Ed proudly served in the U.S. Army, stationed primarily at Camp Chaffee in Arkansas. After returning to Plano, Ed began working for the Federal Huber Company in their sales office in downtown Chicago. After many years of commuting back and forth to the city, he took a position at Western Electric. There, he was able to put his mathematics degree and sharp mind to use as a computer programmer, a career he continued until his retirement.

A passionate golfer, Ed worked at Cedardell Golf Course in Plano, where his love for the game and the course led him to become a loyal member and the local historian of Cedardell. He was also a skilled woodworker, known for the beautiful lanterns he crafted in his workshop—pieces that were often requested and cherished by many.

Ed deeply valued time with family and friends. In his younger years, gatherings at his parents' home created lasting memories, a tradition he carried on in his and Helen’s home—a place where everyone was always welcome.

Ed is now reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Helen; his parents Guy and Hazel (Brainard) Smith; his brothers and their wives—Donald (Joanne), Jack (Joan), and Larry (Kathleen); and his sister, Sandra Holdiman.

He is survived by his children: Edward G. (Beverly) Smith of Sandwich, IL; Sue (Vince) Meringolo of New Jersey; and James (Christine) Smith of Somonauk, IL. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Clarence Holdiman; eight grandchildren: Jaclyn (Kevin) Jensen, Laura Smith, Michelle (Tyler) Jones, Samantha (Nicholas) Sommo, Anthony (Nicole Lobell) Meringolo, Cynthia (Nicholas) Urbanski, James M. Smith, and Jeffrey R. Smith (Rachel); and nine great-grandchildren: Liam, Aubrey, Emily, Dominick, Camilla, Gemma, Violet, Adalyn, and Arthur.

He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss his warmth, wit, and generosity.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Simeona Tan, who lovingly cared for Ed during the last year of his life.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 21st from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Eighner Funeral Homes in Plano, IL. A private burial will take place later at Little Rock Township Cemetery in Plano. In lieu of flowers, donate to the charity of your choice in honor of Edward.

For more information, please visit EighnerFuneralHomes.com.

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home
3952 Turner Ave.
Plano, IL  60545
630-552-3022