Walter Earl Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2023. Born on May 5, 1947, Walter lived a fulfilling life marked by passion, dedication, and love for his family. He was known for his love of the outdoors, his musical talent, and his hardworking spirit.
Walter was a man of many interests. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. His love for nature was infectious and he passed this passion on to his children and grandchildren. Walter was also an accomplished builder, having built substations both in the U.S. and overseas.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Walter had a deep love for farming. Walter was also a talented musician. He had a beautiful singing voice and could play the guitar like no other. Music was a significant part of Walter's life and he often used it as a way to connect with his family and friends.
Walter was predeceased by his parents, Junior and Freda Smith; his brother, Don Smith; sister-in-law, Ratha Smith; and grandson, Joey Galczynski. He is survived by his wife Carol Smith; children, Tom (Lisa) Galczynski, Scott (Mindy) Galczynski, Destie (Kevin) West, Gena (Ollie Wood) Ellis, and Lena Lowe; his grandchildren, Tabby (J. J.) Qualls, Jake Galczynski, Brandon (DesaRae) Galczynski, Nick Galczynski, Kristen Galczynski, Whitney Dixon, Katherine Jo Galczynski, Kevin Lee (Nikki) West, Kurtis (Kristy) West, Alex (Alison) West, Cody (Sam) Ellis, Mariah (Garry Brickey) Summers, Garrett (Brianna Green) Summers; twenty-seven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
Walter will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to his work, and his passion for life. He was a pillar of strength and was a source of guidance and support for his family.
His family will remember him as a loving father and grandfather, a dedicated worker, and a man of strong character. His friends will remember him as a loyal companion and a man who knew how to enjoy life.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 18, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at Phillips Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at Phillips Funeral Home with Bill Muse officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery.
Brandon Galczynski, Jake Galczynski, Alex West, Kurtis West, Cody Ellis, and Garrett Summers will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Nick Galczynski, Mariah Summers, and Kevin Lee West.