Ronald "Ronnie" Dean Smith

Ronald “Ronnie” Dean Smith, 78, Forest, passed away at 1:30 pm Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Kokomo. He was born November 2, 1946 in Frankfort, the son of the late Charles E. and Olivana (Hoffman) Smith. On October 17, 1993, he married Gwen O. Blocher in Frankfort, and she survives.

Ronnie was a 1964 graduate of Clinton Central High School. He served in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970, obtaining the rank of staff sergeant. Ronnie was self-employed his entire life, owning and operating Smith Tire Service, and Forest Agri-Lawn for over 40 years. He loved working in his shop, and farming was his passion.

In addition to his wife Gwen, Ronnie is survived by his children, Darin (Susan) Smith, Indianapolis, Ryan (Grant) Gibson, Pelham, AL, and Aaron (Amy) Smith, Russiaville; step-children, Ronnie (Stephanie) Orem, Forest, and Cheryl (Kevin Ridenour) Byrd, Russiaville; 8 grandchildren, Justin Byrd, Braden Gibson, Evan Gibson, Austin Orem, Isaac Smith, Hailey Orem, Gavin Ridenour, and Alaina Smith; 3 brothers, and 2 sisters.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral service celebrating Ronnie’s life will take place at 1 pm Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Stout & Son Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St., Russiaville, with Ronnie’s brother, Kevin Smith officiating. Burial will follow in St. Paul Cemetery in Forest. Friends may visit with the family from 11 am until the start of the service on Tuesday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kokomo VFW Post 1152 Military Rites Team in Ronnie’s memory. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.stoutandson.com.

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