Larry Dean Smith (Nov. 20, 1951 - Feb. 8, 2024) Duncan, OK

Larry Dean Smith, a cherished husband, father, granddaddy, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on February 8, 2024, in Duncan, Oklahoma, after a four-year battle with cancer. Larry's life was a testament to his loving, faith-filled, thoughtful nature. He was a man who brought joy and laughter to those around him and was known for his playful spirit and his deep commitment to his family and God.

Public visitation will be available 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, February 12, 2024, at the Callaway-Smith-Cobb Funeral Home in Marlow, Oklahoma. The family will be accepting visitors from 5 to 7 p.m.

Funeral services will be held 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at the Eastside Church of Christ in Duncan, Oklahoma. Interment will follow at the Sterling Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. under the direction of Callaway-Smith-Cobb Funeral and Cremation Services of Marlow.

Born on November 20, 1951, in Lamesa, Texas, to Ralph and Millie (Melton) Smith, he was the fifth of six children. Larry began his educational journey at Pecos Elementary in Texas, and then Eisenhower Jr. High and High School in Lawton, Oklahoma, and then graduated from Sterling High School in Sterling, Oklahoma, in 1970. Larry was drafted into the US Air Force in April 1971. He married his beloved wife Donna on September 4, 1971, and the two moved overseas to fulfill his Air Force duties. When they returned to Oklahoma in 1974, he worked as a painter as part of the family business while completing his education at Cameron University, which laid the foundation for his successful career as an accountant in Duncan since the mid-1980s.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Larry's interests were vast. He loved God, his family, and baseball, “in that order.” He had a passion for antiques and classic cars, often spending time maintaining vehicles. He had a kind, loving heart and more than anything, he loved to help those in need. Larry's love for his family was unparalleled, and he took great pleasure in following the activities of his children and grandchildren, always offering his support and encouragement.

Larry and Donna were married for 52 years. They built a life filled with love, laughter, and chaos, welcoming into the world a beautiful family that included their son Randy and wife Tara of Marlow, daughter Rhonda Baird and husband Steve of Hooker, daughter Regina McKinley and husband Ryan of Marlow, son Ryan and wife Leigh of Marlow, daughter Rachel Seat and husband Dave of Edmond, daughter Rebecca Sullivan and husband John of Oklahoma City, daughter Rhetta Davis and husband Billy of Duncan, and daughter Robyn Thomas and husband Matt of Stillwater.

Larry's legacy continues through his 21 grandchildren, whom he adored and pestered: Cooper and Brisco Smith; Mattie, Brady, and Mollie Baird; Tyler, Haley, Joe, and Jenna McKinley; Evy and Bear Smith; Hunter, Shelby, and Smith Seat; Jack and Drew Sullivan; Aubrie, Kynlee, Jayda, Caleb, and Claire Davis. Each grandchild held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment he spent with them.

He was also survived by his sister Brenda Smith of Sterling, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, who will miss him dearly. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; brother Lindel Smith; sisters Catherine Parsley, Evelyn Smith, and Deanna Pate; and his niece Debbie Rhodes.

Larry's life was one of service to his family, community and his country. His presence was a source of strength and comfort, and his actions were always guided by a deep sense of faith. He lived his life with a generous heart, always ready to lend a hand or share a smile.

As we bid farewell to Larry Dean Smith, we celebrate the life of a man who was the embodiment of love and kindness. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire us all. Larry's life was a beautiful tapestry, woven with the threads of love, laughter, and selflessness, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.