Oliver "Smitty" Smith of Louisville, KY left this life of 80 years to join his Heavenly Father following a long, complicated illness. Oliver was born in Leburn, KY - one of seven children - to Andrew and Eva Smith. He was preceded in death by both parents, his brother Merritt, his sister Mildred and son-in-law Rick.
Smitty is survived by his wife of 47 years, Jerri L. Smith, his daughter Terri Lynn Finch, his son by marriage, Tony Gore (Rhonda), five grandchildren, Zachary Finch (Mandi), Joshua Finch, Rachel Gore Borrero (Josh), Tyler Gore, Trenton Gore, his brother Carlos (Anna), and three sisters, Joyce Goodge (Nigel), Lora Cornett (E.P.), Sandy Conley, along with Jerri's family, Nancy Evans, Pat Burgess (Dale), Donald McNeeley, Benny McNeeley (Mary), Sue Joslin, Butch McNeeley, David McNeeley (Susan), and Danny McNeeley (Bonnie). He also had many loved nieces and nephews.
He was a graduate of Hindman High School, a police officer in Columbus, OH, a Marine, a Hairstylist, and later in life earned his Bachelor's degree from Louisville Bible College.
Over a teaching and preaching career that spanned many years, he served as a teacher for the Berean Class at Southeast Christian Church, and for 19 years as pastor of Sulphur Christian Church in Sulphur, KY. Smitty retired at 70 and continued to teach a Bible Study in his home for several years. He loved teaching and discussing the Bible with anyone who showed interest. He was a humble man who pursued God throughout his life. He was passionate about sports of all kinds and enjoyed talking with his friends and family about them. Smitty deeply loved his family, his church family, and his friends. A country man at heart, he never lost his sense of humor, and was a great story teller. His dry wit served him well throughout his life. He significantly impacted so many and will be greatly missed.
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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Iron Bell Ministries or Southeast Christian Church.