Dennis Leroy Smith ,75, lost his battle with cancer on Friday, October 6th, 2023.
Dennis was born September 22, 1948 in Lawrence, KS the son of Leland and Eunice Smith.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war and was stationed in Germany. He was a man of many skills including singing, hunting, playing poker, and coaching baseball. His longest job was as a maintenance and grounds worker for USD 497. He was also a welder, construction work, and limo driver, just to name a few.
He married Eloise Montgomery on October 25th, 1969. They later divorced. He never remarried.
Survivors include his daughter, Mischa Bell (Chris), Lawrence; a son Richard McCart (Shari), Garner, North Carolina; a brother Eric Smith (Judy), Lawrence; 5 grandchildren Allison, Aeron, Aspen, Jackson and Alexandria; his nephews and niece, Dustin, Cory, Brett, Patrick and Lori whom he loved like they were his own.
Dennis was a fierce KU Basketball fan, he loved his hot rods, his motorcycle, hunting, fishing and playing cards. Dennis never met a karaoke night he didn’t like, you could find him singing anything- Oldies, Doo Wop and especially anything Motown.
Dennis was a friend to everyone, if you were lucky to call him friend, you knew it was for life. He was a gentle giant, a big teddy bear with a huge heart. He loved his friends and family with everything he had.
A graveside inurnment will take place on Thursday, October 12th at 11:00 AM at Maple Grove Cemetery in North Lawrence. Memorial contributions can be sent to Douglas County VNA- Hospice.
I had the privilege of playing baseball for Dennis & Eric. They were two of the best to do it. Coach, thanks for showing me the way as a youngster, and the memories we made along the way. It’s not goodbye, but see you later. Fly high sir! Eric, Judy and Family, I pray you find comfort in the days ahead. Dennis was a tremendous person, and touched more lives than he ever knew!
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Mischa and family, So sorry to hear about your dad. He was a great guy-he loved coaching baseball! We will always remember getting together with your dad, mom, and you and your friends playing games. Ron has good memories of him and the kids going fishing and hunting with your dad. And we all loved watching him coaching baseball! Just remember all the good times with your dad and it will help you get through the hard times. We will be thinking of you and praying for the whole family. Love, Ron and Cindy Jackson
Eric and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Saying goodbye to a sibling isn’t easy. My thoughts are with you.
Condolences to Eric and Judy. RIP.
Prayers to the Smith Family. My condolences are with each of you. All I remember is he always wanted to play cards at our family reunion. You used to give my father a hard time. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
I’ll have a cup of coffee at IHOP in your honor, sir. It was a pleasure to know you.
My sweet uncle. Will definitely miss him. So sorry for your loss
Condolences to the Smith family from the Aldrich Family. I remember your Dad /Grandpa Dennis being a funny guy. He was good friends with my Dad Charles Hawkins. Losing a parent isn’t easy.
Sorry we were not able to stay in contact. You will be missed by several. Love ya cousin may you rest in peace.