Louie O. Smith, 93, of Bedford, passed away at 11:29 am on Friday, June 21st, 2024, at Indiana University Paoli Hospital.
Born August 8, 1930, in Martin County, he was the son of Hayden and Lela (Kale) Smith. He married Betty Turner on July 29th, 1956, and this year marked their 68th wedding anniversary. He attended Fayetteville School, graduating with the class of 1949. He entered the United States Army on June 28th, 1951, and
completed his military service during The Korean War. He was discharged as a Sergeant First Class on May 30th, 1953.
Louie was a lifelong farmer; he owned and operated a water well drilling business for many years and was a school bus driver for over 40 years. He was a Mason, receiving the 50-year award of gold from the Bedford Masonic Lodge #14, as well as a Shriner, a member of the American Legion Gillen Post #33, served on the Lawrence County Council, Farmer’s Home Administration Board, Lawrence County Soil and Water Board, and the Farm Bureau Co-op Board. Louie served on the Lawrence County 4-H Fair board and was one of the founding members of the Indian Creek Volunteer Fire Department as well as a member of New Union Christian Church.
Survivors include his wife, Betty, a son, Scott Smith, and wife Nikki; grandchildren Casey Smith (Brandi), Hayden Smith (Lindsey), and Gracie Smith; and great-grandchildren Louie Smith, Stella Smith, Kennlyn Smith, and Stori Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Maurice Smith, and a son, Jim Smith.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 25th, 2024, at the Day & Carter Mortuary with Rev. Richard Tallman officiating. Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded at the graveside by members of the American Legion Gillen Post #33. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Monday, June 24th, 2024, at the Day & Carter Mortuary. A Masonic service will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. on Monday.
The family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Indian Creek Volunteer Fire Department.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Indian Creek Fire Department volunteers for their response, care, and compassion over the past few challenging years, as well as the staff of Paoli Hospital IU for going above and beyond in providing excellent care, patience, and dignity during a very difficult time.
Family and friends may express their condolences at www.daycarter.com.
