Robert L. "Smokey" McElyea

Robert L. "Smokey" McElyea, 84, of Indianapolis, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at I.U. Health West. He was born on September 22, 1941, in Pennington Gap, Lee County, Virginia, to the late Cecil and Sarah (Tester) McElyea.

Smokey was a man of many gifts-steady, skilled, and endlessly resourceful. A year member of Lynhurst Lodge #723 F&AM, he lived out the values of dedication, craftsmanship, and brotherhood. He was also a longtime member of Bridgeport Central Baptist Church, where his faith and friendships ran deep. For many years, he lent his voice to the BC Bluegrass Band, sharing music that brought joy to countless gatherings and reflected the spirit of the community he loved.

A true master of many talents, Smokey could build almost anything and fix nearly everything mechanical. He enjoyed working on cars, tackling projects with creativity and precision, and spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. His hands were rarely still, and his generosity with his skills touched family, friends, and neighbors alike.

He was preceded in death by his former wife of more than 36 years, Anne (Young) McElyea, whose memory remained an important part of his life story.

He is survived by his loving wife, Leona M. (Perdue) McElyea; his children, Kimberli (Mike) Long, Joshua (Ashley) McElyea, and Sarah McElyea Vironet; his sister, Mary Ann (Richard) Woody; his brothers, Tommy Howell, Ray (Debra) Howell, and Andy Howell; step children, Chris Eldridge and Cheryl (Mike) Bailey; seven grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Family and friends will gather on Tuesday, February 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services, 1458 S. Meridian St., Indianapolis. Masonic and funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. Burial will take place in West Newton Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the American Cancer Society. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

To order flowers or share a favorite memory, please visit www.LauckFuneralHome.com. Services and care were provided by Lauck & Veldhof Funeral & Cremation Services.