Ricky Dale Smith

Ricky (Rick) Dale Smith, age 73, of Jerseyville, Illinois, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on January 4, 2025.

He was born in Alton, Illinois, and spent most of his life in Jerseyville. For several years, he lived in Alvin, Texas, where he worked as the city's head mechanic.

Rick served in the United States Air Force, working in security. He later worked as a carpenter and was a skilled craftsman who could build, repair, or fix nearly anything. Later in life, one of his favorite jobs was driving a bus for Jersey Community Unit School District 100. He enjoyed joking with the students on his route and greeting them first thing in the morning. Rick had a sharp sense of humor and enjoyed messing with people, often just to get a reaction. He was strong-willed, but he also cared about his people in his own ways. He knew many people and had many friends throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude (Gertie) Leona Bridges Smith and Winfred Aaron Smith; his brother, Terry; and his son, Keith. Keith was a defining part of Rick's life, and his loss stayed with him. Their bond remained important to Rick and shaped him in ways that lasted long after Keith's passing.

He is survived by his daughter, Jessica Young; his son-in-law, Shawn Young; his grandsons, Jagger and Wylder Young; his sister and brother-in-law, Connie and Rick Blackorby; nieces Leigh (Brian Sronce) Blackorby and Shannon (Kris Krueger) Blackorby and their families; his sister-in-law, Marla Smith; nephews Brian (Tera) Smith and Joe Smith and their families; along with many extended family members and cousins.

Just before the end of his life, Rick was supported by his caretakers, Nikki Smith and Shannon Smith. He gave them a hard time and kept them on their toes, but they cared for him and provided him with steady support and compassion. Rick knew many people, lived a long life, and left behind no shortage of stories.

A graveside memorial will be held at noon, Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Jerseyville, with a Celebration of Life to follow at DJ's Pub & Grill in Jerseyville from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. All are welcome to attend both services and join in remembering ole' Ricky with a beer and a story.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to the family to assist with final expenses.