Richard Edwin Smith

Richard Edwin Smith, of Independence, KY, passed away Monday, October 19, 2026, at Villa Spring Nursing and Rehab in Erlanger, four days after his 86th birthday. Born on October 15, 1940, in Dayton, OH, he was the son of the late Earl Edwin and Heloise Evelyn Maxey Smith.

Dick, as he was affectionately known, retired from Cincinnati Bell as a lineman. He was a 1958 graduate of Fairview High School in Dayton. Upon graduation from high school, he entered the U. S. Army; while he was a Drill Instructor, he earned the rank of Sergeant (SGT). He also excelled as a sharpshooter and earned an Italian Language degree. For many years, he served as a firefighter with the Independence Fire District. On any given day, he could be spotted eating and chatting with his friends at the Walton Waffle House.

Survivors include his son, Brian Edward (Greg) Smith of Covington; his daughter, Lori (Rod) Brewer of Georgetown, along with his grandson, Michael (Destiny) Wells and three precious great-grandchildren: Levi, Cooper and Tucker Wells. He was preceded in death by a grandson, Charles Wells, Jr. and a step-brother, David Sacksteder.

Friends and family may gather for graveside services on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 1:00 at the Wells Family Farm Cemetery, located at 1505 Folsom-Jonesville Road, Jonesville, KY 41052.

Memorial contributions may be made in Dick’s memory to: Charles Wells Jr. Memorial Fund.