2023 04/03 – Larry James Smith

Larry James Smith, 87, of Salem, Illinois passed away on March 29, 2023, at his home in the care of his family.

Born January 21, 1936, in Fredonia Twp., Illinois, he was the son of Perry and Opal (Howard) Smith who preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am Monday in the chapel of Sutherland – Rankin Funeral Home with Josh Conley officiating. Visiting hours will be Sunday evening from 5:00 -7:30 pm, followed by a Masonic Memorial Service at 7:30 pm. Military honors will be accorded at the graveside by the Salem American Legion Post #128 at the Summit Prairie Cemetery in rural Salem.

Memorials may be made to Summit Prairie Cemetery, Martin Cemetery, or to the Donor’s choice and will be accepted by the Sutherland – Rankin Funeral Home, P O Box 97, 310 N. Broadway, Salem, IL 62881 (618)-548-1234, entrusted with the family’s care. Online condolence may be left at sutherlandfuneralhome.com

He was an outstanding Marion County grain and dairy farmer on the family farm located 3 miles east of Alma in Alma Township. He was also a great mechanic. In earlier years he loved motorcycles and Studebakers. A deeply genuine person, he loved to help people with a need and was available to help at a moment’s notice. He enjoyed spending time at Sharon’s Cafe in Salem and the many relationships and friendships developed there over the years. He was a 50-year member of the Marion Masonic Lodge, the Kinmundy Order of the Eastern Star, the Marion County Antique Power Club, and a member of the Kinmundy United Methodist Church. Larry faithfully served in the United States Army. He was anxiously awaiting the birth of a great-grandson in July 2023.

Larry united in marriage with Frances Hiestand on November 18, 1962, in Kinmundy and she survives in Salem. Also, surviving are their children, Darren Smith of Omega, IL, Curtis Smith and wife Deborah of Salem, IL, and Stacey Maxey and husband Larry of Salem. Also grandchildren Ethan (Natalie) Maxey, Evan (Haley) Maxey, Meagan Smith, Chloe Smith, Gracie Smith, and Cambel Smith, along with great-granddaughter Eleanor Maxey. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Nellie Hughes of Salem, IL, Connie Patton of Alma, IL, Susan Smith of Kinmundy, IL, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Kenny and Keith Smith, Doris Huston, Marge Shuler, and Edna Shuler.