Larry Richard Smith Sr., a cherished family man, and respected community member, was called to his Heavenly home by our Lord and Savior, on December 27, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. Born on August 20, 1948, in
Wellston, Ohio, Larry was the beloved son of the late Earl Ivan Smith and Nellie May Brown Smith. His life was a testament to the values of hard work, family, and patriotism. Dad loved the Lord and prayed for his family every day.
Larry's journey began in the close-knit community of Wellston, where he was surrounded by a large and loving family. He was a brother to Earl "Sunny" Smith, Randy Smith, Gene Smith, Bruce Smith, Greg Smith, Pauline Smith, Earlma Smith, Isabella Smith, Pam West, Shirley Smith, and Debbie Smith. Though many of his siblings predeceased him, his memories with them remained a source of joy throughout his life.
He shared a profound and enduring love with his wife, Mary Jane Smith, who preceded him in death, as well as an infant daughter Beth Ann, Together, they raised three children who would carry on Larry's legacy of love and strength: Larry Smith Jr. and his wife Marcy, Jerry Smith and his wife Ramona, and daughter Rebecca Kress and her husband Eric. Larry's family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in his role as a father.
Larry's commitment to his family was matched only by his dedication to his country. He served honorably in the United States Marine Corps, a period of his life that shaped his character and instilled in him a sense of duty and honor that he carried into his civilian life. After his military service, Larry embarked on a career at Calgon Carbon Corporation, where he worked diligently as an operator until his retirement.
Beyond his professional achievements, Larry was a man of many interests, all of which were underscored by his love for his family. He was a guiding light and a pillar of strength for his brothers and sisters, and a constant source of wisdom and encouragement for his children and grandchildren. His love extended to his grandchildren Josh Smith and wife Lori, Zack Smith, Jessica Wallin and husband Calen, Nick Carter, Tara Webb, Lee Smith and wife Kelbi, Erica Kress, and Mary Alley and husband Aron. They, along with his great-grandchildren Bryer, Oliver, Addy, Noah, Isaiah, Annabelle, Izik, Maddie, Molly, Callan, Hunter, Griffin, and Bradley, will remember him as a generous and loving patriarch.
Larry's life was a beautiful mosaic of the people he loved and the values he cherished. Each memory, each story, and each lesson he imparted will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His sister-in-law Pam Castor, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, join his immediate family in mourning the loss of a truly remarkable man.
As we say goodbye to Larry Smith Sr., we celebrate a life well-lived, a family well-loved, and a man who made the world a better place by simply being in it. His legacy of love, dedication, and service will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. Larry's memory will forever be cherished as a beacon of light for his family and the community he held so dear.
A Service will be at a later date. To leave a condolence or to share a story of Larry please visit www.steenfuneralhome.com.