Steven Maloy Smith

Colonel Steven Maloy "Sheetmetal" Smith

November 26, 1935 - July 29, 2025

Colonel Steven Maloy "Sheetmetal" Smith passed away on July 29, 2025, in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the age of 89. Born November 26, 1935, in Wichita, Kansas, he lived a long and wonderful life marked by his dedication to his country and devotion to his family.

Colonel Smith was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Betty Ann Smith and his son, Franklin Buck Smith. His memory lives through his sons Steven Scott Smith and Anthony Vernon Smith, his daughter-in-law Wendy Jastremski Smith, and his grandchildren Natasha Candelaria Smith, Luke Franklin Smith, Martha Joy Smith, Julianne Marie Smith and Kaylin Ann Smith.

Colonel Smith served in the military as a fighter pilot for 43 years (1957-1995). He began his career in the Kansas Air National Guard in 1957. In 1962 he was placed on full-time alert with the New Mexico Air National Guard, 188th Tactical Fighter Squadron during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was asked to remain with them as a full-time pilot in 1963 where he served the next 37 years. He received numerous medals and honors for bravery in battle and leadership while serving in Vietnam between 1968 and 1969 completing over 447 combat hours. During his career he accumulated over 12,880 hours of flight time in nine separate planes including fighters and support aircraft.

Known affectionately as "Sheetmetal," dad and Papa, Colonel Smith leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by his many friends, comrades and family. May his memory bring comfort and strength to all who knew him.

Colonel Smith served in the military as a fighter pilot for 43 years (1957-1995). He received numerous medals and honors for bravery in battle and leadership while serving in Vietnam between 1968 and 1969 completing over 447 combat hours. During his career he accumulated over 12,880 hours of flight time in nine separate planes including fighters and support aircraft.

Services for Colonel Smith will be held Monday, August 25th, 10:00am at FRENCH-Wyoming Chapel. Interment to follow at 2:00pm at Santa Fe National Cemetery where full military honors will be bestowed.