Matthew Lawrence Smith

Matthew Lawrence Smith, 60, a lifetime resident of rural Bellefontaine, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly at his home on October 10, 2025.

Matt was born on April 17, 1965, the second youngest child of the late Tim and Mary Frances (Longbrake) Smith. Matt is survived by his five siblings, Bill (Paula) Smith, Neysa (Frank) Doudna, Tim (Mary) Smith, Steve (Tina) Smith, Tony (Jill) Smith, many nieces, nephews and their families.

Matt graduated from Indian Lake High School. He earned a Bachelor Degree in Computer Science from Defiance College where he was also a member of the wrestling team. Matt was employed at Spartan Nash (Finch) since January 31, 1989, and attained the title of Program Analyst III. He attended St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church in Russells Point, Ohio, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus and managed the church's website.

Growing up on the family farm, he was part of the ready team of workers known as the "Smith Boys" who assisted many local farmers with baling of straw and hay. He eventually purchased his own farm right across the road from his parents. For many years Matt dutifully looked after his mother, helping with her gardens and lawn mowing after his father passed.

Matt was known to be a quiet soul, but when he spoke it was usually with great insight and often quite humorous.

Reverend Shawn Landenwitch and Reverend Brian Smith will concelebrate a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 23, 2025, at St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church, 469 Madison Ave., Russells Point, with visitation for one hour before beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will follow the Mass in Calvary Cemetery, Bellefontaine, with a Mercy Meal afterward at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 400 E. Patterson Ave., Bellefontaine.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in Matt's memory to the St. Vincent DePaul Society of the St. Mary of the Woods Catholic Church.

EICHHOLTZ & DARING FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTER, BELLEFONTAINE, is honored to serve the Smith family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.eichholtzdaring.com 

FAMILY AUTHORED OBITUARY / TFD