Kenneth Smith

Kenneth Holton Smith passed away on October 19th, 2021 at the age of 93, surrounded by those he loved most.

Kenneth was born June 11th, 1928 and is survived by loving wife of 69 years, Barbara J. Smith; family members, Vi Gaddis, Tamela Cegelske, Paul Desmond, Judy & Richard Dorè; brother, Bud Smith; family members,Tillie Smith; Robert Smith; grandchildren, Sean Smith, Krissenda McMahon, and Shanda McMahon; nieces and nephews, Andrea Bytnar, Deanne Meadows, Lisa Smith, Stephen Smith, Monica Reehl, and Marie Callahan; along with great and great-great nieces and nephews.

Kenneth was a Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Teacher, Mentor, and Coach. He spent his life raising 4 children with his wife. He was an exceptional person who put his whole heart in everything he did whether it was taking his sons fishing; teaching his daughter to ride a horse; or shaping the minds of the youth that had the honor of being coached by him. To know him was to love him; he carried himself humbly, with honor, and with a smile. He was driven by love through a enlightenment of life.

After leaving UCLA ('49) Ken briefly served in the US Army in the Korean War. He then started his journey into the workforce in aerospace and aviation Engineering Design. Ken worked on the APOLLO, SATURN, and SPACE shuttle projects. Ken designed equipment for the F-86, F-100, X-15, B-70, and other aircraft. Also aiding in the design of the THOR, TITAN, REDSTONE, and MINUTEMAN Missiles. Ken was a volunteer Deputy Police Officer with a mounted police Possee and a Volunteer Fireman.

Outside of his professional achievements he lived a life of service to others teaching and volunteering. He would say one of his most rewarding ways his time was spent was the 27 years he spent coaching youth football, baseball, soccer, and softball, and training his grandson to a National taekwondo championship ('94). His dedicated outreach provided a foundation and guidance to the youth in the community. He was looked up to, respected, and a blessing to those under his wing who referred to him as “Papi.”

The places in our hearts where Kenneth resides will remain warm with his memories but his physical presence will be greatly missed. We will continue to honor his memory in love and to live a life of humility and honor as a good and faithful servant.

There will be a private service in his honor. In lieu of flowers we ask you to contribute to the Swedenborg Foundation at www.swedenborg.com . With peace and love the family thanks you.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com .