Michael Keith Smith

Michael Keith Smith was one of five children born to the late Saint Elmo and Mary Ella (Gaddis) Smith. He was born on February 16th, 1948 in Columbus, Ohio. God called him home on Saturday, May 9, 2020.

Michael who was also called Mike or “Smitty” by family and friends was a proud graduate of South High School’s 1967 graduating class. While in high school Smitty was a part of the track, basketball, football and wrestling teams. He shared his love of sports with his sons and especially his grandsons.

Mike worked for Columbia Gas of Ohio for 30 years as a pipefitter. Throughout his career he received numerous awards and accommodations for his outstanding work ethic. It was at Columbia Gas that he met, fell in LOVE with and married his wife and angel on earth Pamela (Scott) Smith.

Following retirement, Mike owned and operated Smitty’s Lawn Service. While he found it hard to find workers to match his energy and work ethic he enjoyed working with his sons Jeff, Kevin and part-time employee Chip . When he would have light cutting days (10 instead of 30 yards) he would allow his grandson’s to ride along and “learn from grandad”. His business was later turned over to his partner and friend Carlos Patterson.

Mike loved music but the drums were his passion. He was a self-taught drummer who later taught his grandson Trey to play before he was two years of age. Mike brought his love of music to Wesley United Methodist Church. There he served as Children’s Choir Director, band member, Senior Choir member, Sunday School Superintendent, Worship Committee member and Head of Trustees. During Mike’s illness drumming responsibilities were handed off to Trey.

Mike leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife Pamela of 35 years. Also left to mourn his lost are his siblings Elmer, Kenneth (Jennifer), Shirley (Barry) Mixon and Gloria; his children Michael II (Jill), Kelli (Kenneth) Keeley, Jeffrey (Marsha), Kevin, Lauren and Micah.

Mike also leaves seventeen grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends that mourn his passing.

Sorrowfully Submitted the Smith Family

Private services Visitation 10:00 AM and Funeral Service 11:00 AM Friday, May 15, 2020 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave.

Interment at Glen Rest.