Larry Eugene Smith

LARRY EUGENE SMITH

JERSEYVILLE – Larry Eugene Smith, 73, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, October 13, 2024, following a brief but courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his devoted family. 

Larry was born on January 23, 1951, in Carrollton, Illinois, to Charles Robert and Charlotte Loretta (Rayls) Smith. His childhood in Carrollton was marked by joy and adventure, and as a teenager, his family relocated to Jerseyville, where he graduated with the Jersey Community High School Class of 1969. 

Shortly after graduation, on November 8, 1969, Larry married his best friend and the love of his life, Anita Marie Lane. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and lasting commitment. Their bond was unbreakable, serving as an enduring example of true love for all who knew them. 

From 1967 to 1971, Larry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, stationed in Bakersfield, California. After his military service, he and Anita returned home to Illinois, where they raised their family, enjoying countless adventures together. Larry loved spending time in the great outdoors – camping, fishing, and hunting with his family were among his greatest joys. Each year, he and Anita eagerly anticipated their annual trips to Branson, Missouri, to celebrate their wedding anniversary. 

Larry spend much of his career as a self-employed contractor, owning and operating LE Smith and Sons Construction. His work ethic, attention to detail, and integrity earned him a respected reputation in the community. He later transitioned to the Construction Department at Principia College, where he continued to impact those around him through his hard work and dedication. 

After retiring, Larry found joy and fulfillment in volunteering at Eckert’s Orchard in Grafton, where his hobby blossomed into 14 additional years of meaningful work. He cherished the friendships he made there, becoming a beloved member of the Eckert’s community. 

Larry and Anita were united not only in love but also in faith. They were devoted followers of Jesus Christ and active members of Open Door House of Praise in Jerseyville. Together, they served as missionaries with End Time World Outreach Ministry, traveling to Indian reservations in Arizona and New Mexico to share their faith and extend a helping hand to those in need. 

While Larry’s passing was swift, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is reunited with Anita, who passed just five and a half months ago. Their reunion in heaven was surely a joyous one, as she welcomed him home with open arms. 

Larry is survived by his mother, Charlotte Smith of Jerseyville; four children and their spouses, Michael and Brenda Smith of Jerseyville, Pamela and Clint Jones of Fieldon, Scott Smith of Fieldon and Stephen and Christina Smith of Jerseyville; seven grandchildren, David and Megan Smith of Jerseyville, Caleb Smith of Jerseyville, Trevor Smith and his fiancé, Jalen Newingham of Jerseyville, Carson and Lexi Griesemer of Jerseyville, Kylie and Will Breden of Jerseyville, Marissa Smith of Kampsville and Kaylnn Smith of Jerseyville; five great grandchildren, Gage, Lilly, Lucas, Oaklyn and Remi; 2 sisters and brothers in-law, Brenda and Tom Gorman of Fort Myers, Florida and Diane and Steve French of Jerseyville; as well as a very special uncle, who was more like a brother to Larry, Richard (Becky) Rayls of Jerseyville. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Smith; and his beloved wife, Anita Smith. 

Visitation will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. at Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville, where funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m., Saturday. Reverend’s Royce Roy and Martin Smay will officiate. 

Burial will follow at Kane Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials may be given to the Family, in care of the funeral home. 

Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com

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