Fred Eugene Smith, a beloved father, brother, and community leader, peacefully passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024, at the age of 89, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 16, 1935, in Shelby, to the late Noel and Florice (Hess) Smith.
A proud graduate of Shelby High School, Class of 1953, Fred furthered his education with a Bachelor’s Degree from Otterbein College in 1957. That same year, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army, where he served for two years. Upon returning, Fred embarked on a successful career in banking, starting as a teller and eventually rising to the position of Vice President at First Federal Bank in Galion. After 40 devoted years, he retired, having made an indelible impact on the financial lives of many in the community.
Fred was a man of deep faith, attending Christ United Methodist Church, where he drew strength and inspiration. His passion for community service was evident in his many leadership roles, including serving as a city councilman, participating in Kiwanis, and supporting the Red Cross. He was also proud to be the President of the Library Board, sharing his love of literacy and learning with others. Fred’s love for the arts was showcased through his involvement with the Galion Theater, where he performed and served as treasurer, promoting the cultural vibrancy of his community.
Fred is survived by his five sons: Brian Smith of Columbus, Brad (Cindy) Smith of Green Cove Springs, FL, Matt (Traci) Smith of Sanford, FL, Mike (Kristi) Smith of Mundelein, IL, and Dr. Doug (Amanda) Smith of Lexington, KY. He will also be deeply missed by his brother, Paul Smith, sister-in-law, Shirley Smith, his cherished grandchild, Ellen (David) of Stafford, VA, Erin of Gahanna, Dr. Ryan (Nikki) of Powell, Adam of Miamisburg, Dr. Chad (Maria) of Green, Madison of Tallahassee, FL, Jack of Sanford, FL, Marianne of New York City, Katie of Tampa, FL, Margaret of Johnson City, TN, Jacob of Los Angeles, CA, Tyler of Lexington, KY, Isaac of Lexington, KY, and Lilly of Lexington, KY, and 8 great-grandchildren.
In addition to Fred’s parents, he was preceded in death by; his wife, Mary Sue (Webner) Smith, brothers, Ronald Smith, James Smith, sister’s-in-law, Peg Smith, and Nancy Smith and grandson Eric Smith.
Friends may call on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am at The Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 303 Portland Way North, Galion. Services will immediately follow at 10:30 with Pastor Heather McLeod officiating. Burial will take place at Fairview Cemetery following the services.
Memorial contributions may be made to Luminary Hospice of Ohio, 2400 Corporate Exchange Dr., Suite 110, Columbus, OH 43231 or Alzheimer’s Association 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.
Those wishing to share a memory of Fred or send condolences to the Smith family may do so by visiting https://cas5-0-urlprotect.trendmicro.com:443/wis/clicktime/v1/query?url=www.masfh.com&umid=be77fced-c3d3-11ef-90ee-6045bd07b9de&auth=8789d1923baeef5cdc1c0bb41e7be32625ccae84-fcc1ea0e02be103e4b970ba0d950f98457f09cc9.
The Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, Galion, is honored to serve the family of Fred Eugene Smith.