James Leroy Smith

James Leroy Smith, age 87, of Sabina, passed peacefully on Saturday, October 21, 2023.

Born in Fayette County on October 10, 1936, he was the son of the late Otties and Anna Spurgeon Smith.

Leroy is survived by his dedicated wife of 69 years, Dorothy Ryan Smith. The two were united in marriage on January 14, 1954.

Leroy was a Sabina High School graduate.  He previously drove an oil truck for Bob Van Pelt and was a retired farmer.  Leroy was an active and devoted member of the Sabina Church of Christ; he served as a Deacon, Church Secretary and Treasurer.

During his high school years, Leroy played baseball.  Into adulthood, he continued his love for the game by taking part in various community softball leagues, and later, loved watching games. He enjoyed camping and the many vacations taken with family and friends.  Leroy’s love of farming would often take him to farm auctions, where he loved watching machinery sales.  He enjoyed the camaraderie and visiting with other farmers, discussing all things farming.

Leroy was a hard worker and set a fine example for his children.  He was a loving and devoted husband and father and will be dearly missed.

In addition to his wife, Leroy is survived by their children: Ed (Reggie) Smith of Amanda, Jim Smith of Leesburg, and Sharon (Rick) Welsh of Sabina.  Also left to cherish his memory are grandchildren: Stephanie (Simon) Hall, Christa (Brandon) Pontius, Jimmy (Kim) Smith, Amber (Dan) McNulty, Mariah (Andrew) Overly, Heather (Jared) Simmons, and Nicole (Jr Adams) Anders; along with 21 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.  He is also survived by sister, Katherine (Tom) Pawley; brother, Raymond (Edna) Smith; sisters in-law, Gerri Smith and Patty Ryan; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter, Stacy Lowman; brother, Martin Smith; brothers in-law, Bud Ryan and Jim Ryan.

The family would like to thank the staff at St. Catherine’s for their exceptional care and support.

Memorial donations are suggested to Promedica Hospice and the Sabina Church of Christ.

Family will receive friends at the Sabina Church of Christ on Thursday, October 26, 2023, from 4-7pm.  Funeral services will be held at 11am on Friday, at the church, with burial to follow at Sabina Cemetery.  Littleton Funeral Home, Sabina, has been entrusted with arrangements.