Obituary: Kenneth Ray Smith

Kenneth Ray Smith, age 74, of Galatia went home to be with Jesus, His Savior on Monday, June 1, 2015 at the Carrier Mills Nursing Home.

Ken was born on October 14, 1940 at the family home in Stiritz, Illinois to Don and Georgia Smith who preceded him in death.

He is survived by two daughters and son-in-laws: Lisa and Jerry Beck of Galatia, Illinois, and Debbie and Chris Freed of Bernie, Missouri; two grandchildren: Brad and Cassidy Freed of Bernie, Missouri; one sister: Donna Keca of Texas; nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and a good friend of over 60 years.

Ken was an automobile mechanic most of his life. He retired from Wagner Buick in Belleville, Illinois after 30 years of service. He was awarded best in class several years for his service to Wagner's customers becoming known as the "guy who could find that pesky squeak or unidentified noise" in their vehicle.

He enjoyed coaching his daughter's softball and basketball teams for many years leading them to several championships.

After retirement he moved to Galatia fulfilling a dream of returning to country living. As he settled into retirement he began singing Southern Gospel and Bluegrass music. He was blessed to take his talent to nursing homes, Relays for Life, church homecomings an special events. He enjoyed camping, leather crafting, building birdhouses and skeet shooting and pheasant hunting with his son in laws.

He attended North America Baptist Church. Per Ken's request, no services will be held.

The family would like to thank Fresenius Dialysis Center in Harrisburg, Harrisburg Medical Center, Carrier Mills Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Hospice of Southern Illinois for their special care.

Memorials may be made to Sycamore Ministries c/o PO Box 300, Norris City, Illinois 62869 or to the charity of the donor's choice. Reed Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.