Kenneth Ray Smith

Kenneth Ray Smith, a devoted husband, proud veteran, and talented craftsman, passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the age of 95. He was born on August 16, 1930, in Susanville. His family moved back to Ione to help take care of his Grandma Bonham. It was there that he cultivated his deep sense of family and a lifelong passion for history and restoration.

Kenneth's sense of duty led him to drop out of school and proudly join the U.S. Navy in 1947 at the young age of 17. He served his country honorably, including during the Korean War, where he was a machinist's mate aboard the USS Hazelwood. Upon his discharge, he returned to Ione High School to complete his diploma. There, fate introduced him to the love of his life, Jean Fancher. They were married in November of 1955 and shared a beautiful, devoted life together until Jean's passing.

For his career, Kenneth dedicated himself to public service, working for the California Youth Authority for 30 years. He retired as the Head of Security. After retiring, Kenneth and Jean sold their home in Sacramento. They moved to the mountains, residing first in Pioneer, California, and then in Carson Valley, Nevada, before returning to Ione in 2014.

Kenneth was a man of extraordinary skill and patience. His hands were rarely idle, finding joy in restoring old things and giving them new life. His passion for restoration extended to vintage vehicles, notably a WWII Willys Jeep and a Model A Ford. He was also a prolific artisan, crafting unique walking sticks from pitchfork handles, building intricate birdhouses and toy trucks, and expertly repairing heirloom books. He was also a skilled gunsmith and a lover of history.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean Smith, his brother, Darroll Smith, and his much-loved dog, Sam. He is survived by his brother, Norman Smith, and his sisters-in-law, Merry Smith and Susan Novaky. He is also lovingly remembered by a cherished circle of family and friends, whom he affectionately called his angels, for the compassionate care they provided following Jean's passing.Services will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025. Visitation for Kenneth will be held at Daneri Mortuary (415 Broadway, Jackson, CA) from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Graveside service will follow at Sunset View Cemetery at 11:30 am. All are invited to a fellowship and lunch gathering at the Waffle Shop at approximately 12:30 pm.