Steven Michael Smith, Sr.

STEVEN MICHAEL SMITH, SR., age 73 of Clanton, passed away on November 3, 2025 at Baptist Health-Princeton Hospital in Birmingham, AL. He was born in Tucson, AZ on September 21, 1952, the son of the late James Francis Smith and the late Bernita Ann Giessler Smith.

Steve was employed as a machine operator with AC Legg in Calera, AL, where he was affectionately known by his coworkers as "Papa Steve". He believed deeply in serving others as Jesus served, never hesitating to lend a hand, offer a gentle word of encouragement, or simply be present when someone needed support. His favorite verse of Scripture, the shortest in the Bible, was "Jesus wept". To Steve, it portrayed the profound humanity and compassion of Christ, who suffered and died for us. His favorite hymn was the beloved "How Great Thou Art," which beautifully reflected his reverence and awe for God. Steve was a caring and devoted man who will be remembered most for the love he showed his family. He could often be found attending events, cheering on his loved ones, and celebrating their accomplishments. To know Steve was to know a man whose quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering faith left a lasting impression on those around him.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara E. Smith of Clanton; sons, Steven Michael Smith, Jr. of Glenpool, OK and Thomas Smith of Idaho Falls, ID; daughter, Jennifer Mathis of Freeport, FL; grandchildren, William Smith of Inola, OK, Julia Smith of Glenpool, OK, Jeremiah Smith of Idaho Falls, ID, Danielle "Dani" Smith of Glenpool, OK, and Steven "Stevie" Michael Smith, III of Glenpool, OK; stepmother, Karren Smith of Tucson, AZ; and siblings, Sande Smith of Tucson, AZ, Kathy Butcher of Houston, TX, John Smith of Tucson, AZ, Cheryl Harris of Courde De Lane, ID, and Susan "Susie" Marr of Colorado Springs, CO.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Cynthia

"Michelle" Smith; parents, James Smith and Bernita Giessler; and sister, Nancy Faries.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. from the Clanton Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints with President Brent Jex officiating.

Final care and arrangements entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, AL.

www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com