Joshua Michael Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joshua "Josh" Michael Smith, who departed this life on October 14, 2025, in Hobbs, NM. Born on February 2, 1981, in Kansas City, MO, Josh was a radiant light to all who knew him and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community. He was 44 years old.

Josh was the beloved son of Paul and Lou Ann Smith. He is survived by his cherished wife, Carla Michele Smith, whom he married on June 7, 2019, in Lakeland, FL; his son, Eren Landry Smith; his older brother, Ralph Nicholas Smith; and his younger sister, Stacy Marie Hibschle. Josh's family always held a special place in his heart, and he dedicated his life to their happiness and well-being.

A proud and accomplished professional, Josh was recognized as a leader and loved working in the gaming industry. He began his career at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa, FL, in 2005, where he held various roles in the slot department, eventually becoming a Shift Manager. His dedication and leadership skills did not go unnoticed, culminating in him receiving the esteemed Producer of the Year award in 2014, along with numerous monthly and quarterly accolades. In 2023, he achieved his dream role as the Director of Slots at Zia Park Casino, where he continued to inspire those around him until his untimely passing.

Josh was a lifelong learner, always seeking to improve both personally and professionally. His passion for technology was evident in his hobbies, where he enjoyed building a server for his family and was constantly tinkering with innovative solutions to enhance their lives. Josh was also an enthusiastic golf player, a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan since he was just ten years old, and a Fantasy Football prodigy who shared his knowledge and expertise with friends and players across the country. His skills as a mixologist were equally impressive; he loved crafting cocktails and sharing his bartending skills with loved ones.

Known for his humor and infectious laughter, Josh had a unique ability to light up any room he entered. His playful nature and silliness never faded, allowing him to maintain a childlike excitement for life. He was a caring and compassionate friend, whose genuine interest in the well-being of others made him a mentor to many. His strong work ethic, vision, creativity, and family-oriented values were hallmarks of his character. As a devoted husband, father, son, and brother, he prioritized his family above all else, ensuring they felt loved and supported every day.

A Christian by faith, Josh was committed to his beliefs, which guided him throughout his life. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but the memories he created will be cherished forever.

Josh's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful medical professionals who provided compassionate care during his illness. Special thanks to Dr. Michael Jaglal, Dr. Derek T. Hansen, Dr. Donald P. Quick, Dr. Dennis Durieux, Dr. Kaiser Tarafdar, and Dr. Andrew Shakespeare for their life-saving guidance in treatments for Josh from his diagnosis to his final breath. We are also deeply grateful to the countless nurses in Tampa, Lubbock, and Lovington who provided compassionate and life-sustaining care. To Pat, our hospice nurse, who treated Josh with gentle care, preserving his dignity and guiding us through his final days, you are an angel, and we have endless gratitude and love for you.

A gathering to celebrate Josh's life will be held on October 22, 2025, from 3:00p.m. to 6:00p.m. at Chapel of Hope, located at 3321 N Dal Paso St, Hobbs, NM 88240. Additional memorial services will be held in Kansas City, MO, and Tampa, FL on future dates.

If you feel moved to contribute to the costs of the funeral and memorial services, donations can be made via our GoFundMe campaign at https://gofund.me/68a9b9991 Your generosity and kindness during this time mean the world to us.

Josh's spirit will remain alive in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in his life. May he rest in peace.