Kenneth LeRoy Smith

Kenneth LeRoy Smith

November 9, 1949 – December 24, 2025

Kenneth LeRoy Smith, 76, of Lebanon, Oregon, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was born on November 9, 1949, in Redmond, Oregon. Ken was known for his deep love of family, his enjoyment of meeting new people, his sense of humor, and his constant willingness to help others.

A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Ken served honorably as a Boiler Technician aboard the USS Kitty Hawk from June 1969 to October 1970. He was honorably discharged to pursue his education and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal for his service during the Vietnam War. Ken followed his passion for mechanics and became a Master Automotive Technician, working in the automotive field for over 50 years before retiring from Courtesy Corner Shell in 2021. He also enjoyed woodworking, building benches for others and completing many projects, including cabinetry and decks at the Reedsport parsonage and around his home.

Ken was the devoted husband of Nancy Smith for 40 years and a loving father to Eric Smith and Roxann Durgeloh. He treasured time with his eight grandchildren, often playing with them and sharing his mechanical knowledge. A longtime member of Albany Missionary Baptist Church, Ken was actively involved in work projects and faithfully shared his love for Jesus throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children Eric, Roxann, and Rosie; siblings Ralph, Anita, Connie, Roger, and Bill; grandchildren Seth, Madison, Wyatt, Ethan, Boone, Hannah, Josie, and Georgia; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Betty Smith, and siblings Patrick and Betty Jean.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Albany Missionary Baptist Church. Huston-Jost Funeral Home is handling arrangements.