Mark Smith

Mark Joseph Smith, 61, of Northern Kentucky, passed away on February 13, 2026. Born in Dayton and raised in Erlanger, he grew up in a close-knit family, spending his childhood exploring the outdoors and embracing the simple joys of the 1970s.

A bright and curious soul who loved history and reading, Mark joined the United States Navy at 18. His service took him around the world aboard the USS Truxtun, where he served with steadiness and courage, including during Operation Praying Mantis. He took great pride in helping rescue a Japanese fisherman and assisting in saving a whale - moments that reflected his deep compassion and love for life.

After 26 years of marriage, Mark's greatest joy became being a father to his daughters, Xena and Gabrielle, whom he adored beyond measure. He embraced fatherhood with humor and heart, finding pride not in titles or medals, but in the people and experiences that shaped him.

Mark will be remembered as fun, kind, adventurous, and deeply loved - a man whose laughter filled rooms and whose legacy lives on through the lives he touched.

A visitation will be held Friday, February 20th from 4:00–5:00 p.m. at Don Catchen Family Funeral Home in Elsmere, KY, followed by a 21-gun salute in honor of his military service.

Don Catchen Family Funeral Home is assisting the family.