Obituary of Ross Eugene Smith

Ross Eugene Smith passed in peace on Friday, January 27, 2023 at the age of 96. Gene was born on September 24, 1926 to the late George and Hazel Smith of Pennsylvania. Joining the Marines, and just days before his high school graduation, he went to serve his country in WWII. After the Marines, he went on to become a mechanic. His knowledge and character lead him to become a Mechanic teacher at Osceloa High [Florida], from which he would retire. Known to his students as “Smitty”, he has made a lasting impact on many. In 1946, he married Kathryn Pearl Emhoff (deceased 1987) and had two children, Michael and Betty Kay. In 1989, he married Cheryl Parrish and gained a step-daughter, Vicki. They moved to Tennessee shortly after. Preceded in death by wife Kathryn Pearl Smith; brother Kenneth Smith; sisters Virginia Weber and Betty Rayner; great grandchild Cody Newsom. Survived by wife Cheryl Parrish Smith; son Michael (Dorothy) Smith; daughter Betty Kay (Robert) Renick; stepdaughter Vicki Smallman; 7 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Gene was a devoted father, husband, and an avid bowler. Bowling for over 70 years, he received many tournament trophies. After retirement, he kept busy with his hands and continued to bowl. He joined a local bowling league and enjoyed the sport until Covid, retiring his bowling shoes at the age of 93. Very soft spoken and gentle in heart. We are blessed to have had him in our lives for such a long time. He formed a wonderful family and he was able to witness his family grow and be proud of his creation. We will miss you, Boss Ross. Stay mean and sassy!