The Richmond News, Sept. 25, 2026

Steven Smith

Steven Wayne “Smitty” Smith, 74, of Richmond passed away Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Liberty Hospital. Smitty was born April 13, 1952, in Lexington, the son of Paris Wayne and Norma Katherine (Cox) Smith. He was united in marriage to Lori Lee Judd of Richmond on Aug. 21, 1976. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include his two sons, Justin Wayne Smith and Nathan Taylor (Lindsey) Smith, both of Richmond; grandson, Jack Wayne Smith; and sister, Nancy Durr of Richmond. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Sheri Palmerin and Barbara Jordan.

Smitty was raised and educated in Richmond and graduated with the class of 1970 from Richmond High School.

He became a well-known and respected businessman in the area, owning and operating Smith Masonry, which later became Smith Construction Services. More than a business, it became a family endeavor, with Steve working alongside his sons through the years. After a long career built on hard work and dedication, he retired in 2022.

Away from work, Smitty had many interests that kept him busy. He enjoyed collecting firearms, had a great love for music and especially enjoyed playing his guitar. He could often be found watching an old movie and appreciated just about any kind.

Steve valued the simple things in life — a good song, a good movie, time spent visiting with family and friends, and whenever the opportunity presented itself, a good nap. Above all else, his family meant the most to him, and the time he shared with those he loved was always time well spent.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the donor’s choice. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

A memorial visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Smitty with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.