Fred Webster Smith

Master Sergeant Fred Webster Smith, a devoted servant, educator, mentor, and community pillar, was born on March 3, 1950, in Bardstown, Kentucky, to the late Charles and Sallie Smith. In his early childhood, the Smith family relocated to Corydon, Indiana, where Fred's character, discipline, and leadership spirit began to take root.

Growing up in Corydon, Fred was deeply involved in his community through church activities, athletics, and youth programs. He was a standout student-athlete, playing football and distinguishing himself in track and field, where he broke a school track record-an early testament to his drive, determination, and physical excellence. He graduated from Corydon Central High School in 1969, carrying with him a strong sense of purpose and service.

Following graduation, Fred answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. As a proud Vietnam veteran, he devoted 24.5 years of honorable service to the nation, serving both domestically and abroad. Throughout his distinguished military career, he pursued continued education through the military and served in multiple critical roles, including Drill Instructor and Career Planner-positions of trust that shaped and influenced countless Marines. His exemplary service was recognized through numerous medals, badges, and ribbons, reflecting his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to duty.

Upon retirement from the Marine Corps, Master Sergeant Smith seamlessly transitioned his military experience into education, dedicating himself to shaping young lives as a Navy JROTC instructor at Vanguard High School in Ocala, Florida. In addition to teaching, he coached football and track, instilling discipline, structure, confidence, and resilience in his students. Even after retiring from teaching, he remained actively involved with the track and field program, continuing to motivate and inspire athletes with his unmistakable "drill instructor voice" and commanding presence. His mission was clear: to build strong character, leadership, discipline, and lifelong confidence in every student he encountered.

Fred remained deeply engaged in the Ocala community through the Moose Lodge and various social and civic activities. Known affectionately as "Smitty," he was a man who never met a stranger. His warmth, charisma, and gift for storytelling made him unforgettable to all who crossed his path. Family and friends were often captivated by his animated stories-shared over a good cigar-about his military service, motorcycle adventures, outdoor experiences, and travels. His laughter, voice, and presence filled every room, and his spirit left a lasting imprint on countless lives.

On January 15, 2026, Master Sergeant Fred Webster Smith received his wings.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Thomas Smith; his mother, Sallie Prue Smith; his sister, Hattie Marie Smith; and his beloved daughter, Tonesya Renee Smith.

He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Jattai Evan Smith of Statesboro, Georgia; his sister, Rhonda (Perry) Montgomery of Indianapolis, Indiana; nieces Brittini Strong of Alabama and Carmen Saunders of Indiana; nephews Richard (Elease) Smith of Indiana and Carlos Saunders of Indiana; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends. He also leaves behind his honorary brothers, Andrew (Amanda) Scott and Robert (Netta) Robinson, whose bonds of brotherhood reflected loyalty, respect, and lifelong friendship.

Master Sergeant Fred Webster Smith's legacy is one of service, leadership, mentorship, discipline, and love. His life stands as a testament to honor, integrity, and devotion-to family, to country, to community, and to every life he touched. His impact will continue through the generations he shaped, the students he inspired, and the family and friends who carry his memory forward.