Richard Todd Smith

April 6, 1960 – March 14, 2026

Richard T. Smith, of Lafayette, Indiana, passed away leaving behind a life story that was far from perfect, but deeply human, heartfelt, and full of love in its own way. Born on April 6, 1960, in Lafayette, Indiana, Richard was the son of David M. Smith and Floella Edington.

Richard was a graduate of Jefferson High School in Lafayette. Throughout his life, he walked a difficult road and faced many hardships and struggles. But through it all, those who truly knew Rich knew the one thing that never changed - he had a huge heart. He cared deeply for others, often helping people however he could, and would give what he had even when he didn't have much to give.

Richard found peace in simple things. He loved spending time with his friends, especially by the river, where the water brought him a sense of calm and comfort. He also had a deep love for music, especially rock and roll, which spoke to his soul in a way few things could. One of his happiest memories was attending a Here Come The Mummies concert at the Lafayette Theater with his Aunt Rosann and cousins Tim and Tony Huff. It was a night he treasured deeply, not only because of the music, but because it gave him precious time with family he dearly missed. He later told Rosann it was the best time of his life.

In the later years of his life, Richard showed his love not only in words, but in quiet acts of devotion. He was always there for his Aunt Rosann Pallas, never hesitating to take her to doctor's appointments, and he was always there for his mother's weekly trips to the grocery store and hairdresser. That was Rich at his core - someone who showed up for the people he loved.

Richard is survived by his longtime companion and dear friend, Cindi Ruppe, and by Jessi Bateman, Charlie Hoggard, and Jamie Ruppe, whom he loved dearly and adored as his own. He shared a particularly special bond with Jamie, having helped raise him from a young child. He is also survived by his sister, Iris Rairdan of Fishers, Indiana; his brother, David J. Smith of Lafayette, Indiana; his niece, Lindsay Squires; his nephews, Justin Smith and James Rairdan; his beloved Aunt Rosann Pallas; his Aunt Garnetta Williamson and his uncle, Rev. Howard E. Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, David M. Smith and Floella Edington; his stepdaughter, Lindsey Mornout; his brother-in-law, James Eugene Rairdan; and his sister-in-law, Susie Smith.

Richard will be laid to rest at a later date beside his mother, Floella, at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens, 1718 W 350 N, West Lafayette, Indiana 47906.

Though Richard's life was not without struggle, he will be remembered for the love he gave, the loyalty he showed, the music that moved him, and the kindness that lived within him. For those who loved him, that is how he will remain - not defined by his hardships, but by his heart.