Barry Michael "Smitty" Smith

Barry Michael Smith, 68, passed away at his home in Danville on Thursday, June 2, 2022 following a brief illness.

Mike, known to his friends as “Smitty”, was born on July 12, 1953, in Middlesboro, Kentucky as the third child of his parents, Dan B. and Velma Lucille (Partin) Smith.  Mike attended Oakwood High School for three years and graduated in 1971 from Middlesboro High School in Kentucky.  After graduation he moved back to Danville and began working construction. In 1972, Mike became a member of the Laborers International Union of N.A., Danville Local #703 of which he was a member for 50 years.  He worked on many local construction projects for both O’Neil Brothers Construction and Schomburg Construction. After 25 years as a construction Laborer Mike retired at age 46.

Mike was well known as a very hard worker and became known as a “master” at concrete and construction work.  He was very dedicated to his craft and to the companies where he worked.  Smitty was well respected by his fellow workers.  He was a very kind and honest individual and was always willing to help anyone with a project outside of his daily employment.  He found pleasure in doing projects for friends and family and was willing to do just about anything to help others.

Mike had a sincere faith in God.  He recently told his mother, “I do not know how anyone can get through this world without faith in God”.  He was a former member of First Baptist Church, Danville.  Smitty had a good sense of humor and had many friends at Sarge’s Tap whom he called “family”.  He very much appreciated the owners, Wanda and Spanky West, and after retirement, enjoyed grilling and cooking at their business for special events.  It brought him much joy and happiness in his retirement years to prepare steaks and other specialties for customers.  His friends, “Jack and Crown”, were a big part of his life.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Dan B. Smith, Sr.  Survivors include his dear 93 year old mother, Velma Lucille Smith of Tilton, Illinois, brother Dan B. Smith, Jr. (Eleanor) of Williamsport, Indiana, three sisters Derhonda (Terry) Roderick of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, Kim Smith and Angela Smith, both of Danville.  He has three children, Shannon Desy of Savoy, Illinois, Jade Smith of Fithian, Illinois, and Kanae’ (Alexander) Smith-Thomas of Dana, Indiana, along with seven grandchildren. With attention and gentle teasing Uncle Mike won the hearts of children including his many nephews and nieces.  Mike’s partner for over 30 years has been Karen Sims.

At his request, Mike will be cremated and a celebration of life, “Smitty’s Last Call”, will be held at Sarge’s Tap for friends and family on Wednesday, June 15 from 4-6 P.M.  He had two favorite songs that he asked to be played at his celebration: “How Great Thou Art” (Elvis) and “I Did It My Way” (Sinatra).  Mike was well loved and will be missed by his family and the many good friends he has made throughout his life.  May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made at Sarge’s Tap, 409 E. Main Street, Danville. Donations will help to fund a memorial park bench to be placed in the outdoor patio area which Mike helped construct. Online condolences: www.rortvedtfuneralservices.com.

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