Kenneth Patrick Smith

Kenny Smith passed away on March 15, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with mental illness and addiction. He fought tirelessly throughout his life to find peace and healing, and in that fight, he showed a depth of strength that touched everyone who knew him.

 Kenny was born on March 10, 1989, to Jeff and Suzie Smith. From the start, he was the kind of person who made a room feel lighter. Funny, goofy, and full of warmth, he had a gift for laughter and fun that stayed with him his entire life.

 Growing up, Kenny also carried a quiet weight. He once shared that even as a child, standing on a soccer field, he felt like he didn't quite belong. His struggles with mental illness began early, and at 18, he took a brave step and entered his first inpatient treatment program. For nearly 20 years, he continued to fight for sobriety and stability with a persistence that never wavered, even when the road was hard.

 But Kenny was so much more than his struggle. He was a natural athlete who loved softball, volleyball, and wrestling. He thrived outdoors and was happiest when he was outside, moving, and surrounded by the people he loved. Music was a constant companion throughout his life and a source of deep comfort and meaning to him. Whether he was out in nature or gathered with friends, Kenny had a way of making ordinary moments feel like something worth remembering.

 He was also someone others leaned on. Along the way, Kenny supported and inspired countless people in their own recovery journeys. His compassion and empathy were real, and his willingness to show up for others reflected the genuine goodness at his core.

 Kenny's greatest joy was his daughter, Aqua. She was the light of his life, and the pride and love he felt for her were unmistakable to anyone around him.

 He is survived by his daughter, Aqua; his parents, Jeff and Suzie Smith; his brothers, Henry (Brynn) and Timothy (Helena); his sisters, Lily and Brittany; and a wide circle of family and friends who will carry him with them.

 A viewing will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., followed by funeral services on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., both at McDougal Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Taylorsville City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Aqua's college fund at [details will be added when available].

 In memory of Kenny's fight and compassion for others, the family encourages anyone struggling to reach out for help: call or text 988 (Mental Health & Crisis Lifeline), contact SAMHSA at 1-800-662-4357, or reach the AA Central Office of Salt Lake City at 801-484-7871