Gennis L. "Gene" Smith

Gennis L. “Gene” Smith, 87, of Ransom, KY passed away Saturday, March 23, 2023 at his home.  Born April 1, 1936 in Ransom, KY, he was the son of the late Freeland and Fannie Smith also of Ransom, KY. 

Gene was born and raised on Blackberry Creek and besides a few career moves when he was a young man that took him away from home, he loved his whole life in Ransom, KY.  Many people in the area knew him due to the side jobs he did in building and repairs to working in the mines.  They loved to stop by and sit on the porch and talk with him. He would talk of things he got into in his lifetime and make everyone laugh.  He would do anything he could to help people out when they were in need.  For many years he would help check on this neighbor, who lived alone, bring her mail and newspaper, and come over if she called him when she needed help.

After the death of his parents, he moved into the home place and started running a business from home carrying many used items, parts, and tools, where everyone called him the “Tool Man”. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister-in-law, Patricia Smith of Marengo, IL, one brother-in-law, Edwin S. Smith of Ransom, KY, and one nephew, Travis Smith of Roseville, MI.

Those left to cherish his memory are one brother, Lloyd Smith of Marengo, IL, one sister, Christine Smith of Ransom, KY, two nieces, Karen Palakie of Marengo, IL and Noveline Hatfield of Peterstown, WV, one nephew, Steve Smith of Marengo, IL, several great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews.  Also a very special friend of over 8 years and caregiver, KY State Trooper Hoyt Smith.  Hoyt stopped with Gene nearly every day, helped him with things he couldn’t do, and was always there anytime Gene would call.  He also had many other special friends, Mo Dotson, Delmar Hatfield, Ed Thomas Hatfield, and Dean Allen, just to name a few.

Anyone who knew Gennis, knew about his 4 legged friend, Rosco.  He taught that dog, and the ones before him, to tell him what they needed.  We know that Rosco will grieve his loss, but we will make sure he is well taken care of as per Gene’s wishes.

Gennis was a member of the Victory in Jesus Church.  Per his wishes, only a graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 1:00 pm at the Alley Cemetery at McCarr, KY with Bro. Mike Smith officiating and burial to follow.

We, the family, would like to say a special “thank you” to all the first responders that came to the house in our time of need.  Our family is forever grateful!

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