Ira "Lou" Smith

1950 - 2025

Ira "Lou" Smith
Born: July 1, 1950 in Memphis, TN
Died: May 24, 2025 in Joliet, IL
Ira "Lou" Smith, age 74, of Joliet, Illinois, passed away on May 24, 2025. Born on July 1, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee, Lou lived a life defined by devotion-to his country, his family, and his community.
After graduating from Joliet Central High School Class of 1968, Lou proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Jason (AR8) as a machinist mate. His dedication to honoring the sacrifices of veterans continued long after his military service; for the past 15 years, he worked tirelessly in support of VFW Cantigny Post 367, ensuring that the legacy of service and remembrance was never forgotten. Of those years, he spent 7 serving as the Post Commander. Lou dedicated time and heartfelt effort to Cantigny after retiring from the Citgo Lemont Refinery after 32 years of service.
On November 11, 1972, Lou married the love of his life, Debora Powell. Together they built a family grounded in love and loyalty. He was a devoted father to Jennifer, Jana, and Michael and a proud "Papa" to his grandson, Jason.
Lou is survived by his loving wife Debora of Joliet, his daughter Jennifer (Doug) Cherven of Plainfield, and his son Michael Smith of Saint Petersburg, Florida. He is also survived by his grandson Jason Cherven of Plainfield. Lou also leaves behind his loving four-legged girl, LuLu, who will always look for him to play "Squeakies" with. Also surviving is his sister-in-law Candy (John) Partilla of Elwood and brother-in-law Steve (Sue) Powell of Manhattan, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilford and Mary Frances Smith, his sister Carla Casarez, nieces Shelly Partilla-Tozzi, Stacey Partilla, and his daughter Jana Smith.
Lou will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, steady presence, and the strength of his convictions. He was a wonderful husband, a loving father, a doting grandfather, and a loyal friend.
A memorial visitation will take place on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 10am until 1pm at the funeral home. Funeral service will take place at 1pm also at the funeral home. Inurnment will immediately follow at Elmhurst Cemetery, Joliet where he will be placed near his daughter Jana.
Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60435, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.