Vantory Smith

Vantory Smith obituary, London, KY

Vantory Smith

Vantory Smith Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by House-Rawlings Funeral Home - London on Jan. 28, 2026.
Vantory Smith, age 90, of London, Kentucky passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Patricia Abner Smith; two children, Linda Swafford of Manchester, KY, Lisa Parman & husband Everett of London, KY; one sister, Mandy Smith of Barbourville, KY; seven grandchildren, Roger Swafford, Jeniffer Collins, Darren Parman & wife Ashley, Allen Parman, Diane Parman, Samantha Smith, Darrell Smith; plus a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephew, and other family and friends to cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James R. & Sudie Smith; one son, Darrell Smith; and by six siblings, Frank Robert Smith, Cleo Smith, Larkin Smith, Virginia Smith, Tressie Smith, Dexter Smith.

Vantory was a lifelong self-employed logger and true mountain man at heart. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, and deep love for his family.

Vantory spent his life working the land, finding purpose and pride in honest labor. The woods were more than his workplace-they were his home. He understood the rhythms of nature, the value of patience, and the dignity that comes from providing through one's own hands.

When he wasn't logging, Vantory could often be found tending his gardens. He took joy in watching things grow, nurturing life from the soil, and sharing the fruits of his labor with those he loved. Gardening, like logging, reflected who he was-steady, thoughtful, and grounded.

Above all else, Vantory loved his family. He was a sweet soul with a gentle heart, known for his kindness, quiet ways, and the care he showed to those around him. His presence was a comfort, his love unwavering.

Vantory Smith will be remembered as a man who lived simply, loved deeply, and left the world better through his work, his patience, and his heart.

Vantory Smith will be laid to rest at Mills Cemetery in Manchester, Kentucky. Anyone wishing to make a donation to help with final expenses for Vantory Smith may do so in person at House-Rawlings Funeral Home, by phone, by mail or through the following link:

https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/5JLRXNBDH4E5W

The family has entrusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Vantory's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Vantory Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Vantory Smith's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?