Stephen S. Smith

Stephen Stanley Smith, 63, of Decatur, Alabama, passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

He was born on November 5, 1961, in Washington, Iowa, to Stanley Smith and Jeanine (Rodgers) Paul. On July 4, 2008, he married Alice Irene Thompson in Hartsel, Alabama; she survives.

Also surviving are his father, Stanley (Sandy Harms) Smith of Parker, CO; three children, Christine (Matt) Tate of Decatur, AL, Chelsie (Travis) Mumme of Sperry, IA, and Bryce (Kristine) Worthington of New Philadelphia, IL; ten grandchildren, Adrian, Taylor, and Vincent Pinion, Carson and Grayson Tate, Rhett and Esme Mumme, and William, Elora, and Thomas Worthington; and five siblings, Sharon (Bruce) Havlat of Naperville, IL, Jennie Paul of Decatur, AL, Gary (Karen Lowe) Smith of Glasford, IL, Kristi (Dave) Tarpein of Wyaconda, MO, and Joe Randall Paul of Wyaconda, MO.

He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Jeanine and Earnie Paul; his daughter, Vanessa Klein; and his brother-in-law, Mike Paul.

Stephen graduated from Cuba High School in 1980. In 1984, he joined the United States Army, serving proudly with the 82nd Airborne Paratroopers. Over the course of 25 years, he rose to the rank of Sergeant Major and served as a Jump Master, before retiring in 2009.

A true outdoorsman, Stephen loved boating, riding his motorcycle, and spending time in nature. Most of all, he cherished time with his family and especially his grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Martin-Hollis Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Eddy officiating. Burial of ashes will follow at Baughman Cemetery with full military rites. Memorials may be made to Alabama Veteran. Services will be live streamed at https://www.facebook.com/martinhollis/

Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www.martinhollisfh.com