By Jim Meridith
Posted: Updated:
66 Comments
    • Service

      A private graveside service will be held Friday, June 5, 2020 at Little Prairie Cemetery. For additional information, contact Melissa Crickman at 618-445-7869.

    • Full Obituary

      Kevin Ray Smith, 62, of Albion, IL passed from this life to the next at his residence on June 1, 2020.

      He was born October 6, 1957 in Olney, IL, the son of Margaret (Hughes) and Elmer Smith. He married Kathy Gregory on July 1, 1979 at the First Christian Church in Albion, and she survives.

      Kevin was a proud, loving husband, father, and papaw. He loved farming, hunting, and four-wheeling. He was a hard-working man who enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Kevin owned and operated the family centennial farm and spent his most recent years at Toyota in Quality Assurance.

      He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Kathy; two daughters: Melissa (Michael) Crickman of Carterville, IL and Krista (Tyler) Antrim of Carterville, IL; two sons: Dustin (April) Smith of Evansville, IN and Chad (Ally) Smith of St. Louis, MO; and five grandchildren: Lillie, Isabelle, Makaya, Maysa, and Magraw.

      Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Elmer Smith; his close grandpa, John Hughes; his grandson, Myles Crickman; aunt and uncle, Bernadine and Ivan Smith; aunt Virginia Kimbrough, and uncle Van Sharp.

      A private graveside service will be held Friday, June 5, 2020 at Little Prairie Cemetery. For additional information, contact Melissa Crickman at 618-445-7869.

      Memorials may be made to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline with checks made out to Vibrant Emotional Health In Memory of Kevin Smith, or to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Memorials will be accepted at the funeral home.

      Online condolences and fond memories may be left for the family at www.meridithfuneralhome.com and are especially welcomed during this trying time.

      Ingram-Meridith Funeral Home of Albion is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

    Condolences are reviewed and published within 24 hours.

    66 Condolences
     
    1. SHEILA SCHNEPPER / June 3, 2020 at 2:30 pm

      Smith Family,

      Words can not describe the sadness I feel for you all, Kevin was such a sweet guy, My thoughts and Prayers are with you all!

      Love and Prayers for Gods comfort,
      Sheila

    2. Curtis Ingram / June 3, 2020 at 2:44 pm

      Sorry to hear of Kevin’s passing.
      You have our sympathy
      Curtis & Dolores Ingram

    3. Katie Krus / June 3, 2020 at 2:54 pm

      We are so broken hearted over Kevin’s passing. May God comfort you in your grief and carry you through these difficult times. He loved you all so very much.
      With our deepest sympathy, the Krus Family

    4. Rebbecca Snodgrass / June 3, 2020 at 3:00 pm

      Prayers for comfort & peace in your family’s hearts.

    5. Chuck and Terri Hilgeman...Kyle, Kate and families / June 3, 2020 at 3:06 pm

      He had so many smiles…rarely saw him without one…Many special memories …Our hearts break for you all…Please know you have been and will continue to be….ever close in our hearts and prayers….Psalm 91….may you be “covered by His mighty wings”…Xoxoxo ❤

    6. Patti Murphy / June 3, 2020 at 3:10 pm

      So very sorry for your loss. Praying for your family at this devastating time. Bob and Patti

    7. TJ Krus / June 3, 2020 at 3:10 pm

      Our hearts go out to the entire Smith family. We hope loving memories help you in this time of sadness.
      With Love
      TJ and Kathy Krus family.

    8. Gayla Hunley / June 3, 2020 at 3:11 pm

      Kathy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers of comfort for you all!

    9. Kimberly / June 3, 2020 at 3:17 pm

      This breaks my heart for Kathy and the rest of his family. His kids, in laws, and grandkids. This is a great loss to not only the family, the community. Kevin was always very kinds, sweet and caring to all around him. I hope that through this great, massive loss that people are more aware of others and how they are truly doing.

      May GOD be with you all during this time and later as you all carry on with a loss but with many treasured memories that will help carry you through.

      Love and Prayers
      Kim

    10. Thy Ton / June 3, 2020 at 3:23 pm

      Sharing in your sadness with your family. And we are keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.

    11. Ashlie Broster / June 3, 2020 at 3:54 pm

      Kevin was the sweetest and most caring man. He gave 2 young kids a start in farming and we could not of been more grateful. He will always be a very special person to me. Kathy and family I know there are no words to say that will make it better, just know we are think you you and praying for your healing.

      Ashlie, Cole, & Audrey Broster

    12. Dawn Skillman / June 3, 2020 at 3:59 pm

      I am so sorry for your loss. May God’s comfort enfold you all.

    13. Judy Weiler / June 3, 2020 at 4:24 pm

      Sending prayers and condolences to the Smith family during this difficult time.

    14. Charlotte Tribe / June 3, 2020 at 4:26 pm

      Bill and I are so sorry for your loss, Kevin was just a very good person and I know he Loved his family. We are praying for all of you in this trying time. In Christian Love Bill and Charlotte Tribe.

    15. Linda Kelsey / June 3, 2020 at 4:38 pm

      So sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers.

    16. Sue Copley / June 3, 2020 at 4:42 pm

      So very sorry this has happened……..prayers for all of your family during this time.

    17. Rob Shoaff / June 3, 2020 at 4:56 pm

      We were saddened to read this news. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

      Rob and Cindy Shoaff

    18. Pam Shaw / June 3, 2020 at 5:01 pm

      Do sorry for your loss. Kevin will be missed. He always had a smile on his face.

    19. Linda Root / June 3, 2020 at 5:23 pm

      Kathy and family
      So sorry for your loss

    20. Pam and Bob Orr / June 3, 2020 at 5:27 pm

      Kevin was a fine man and we want to extend our heartfelt sympathy to your whole family. May God guide and comfort you in the future.

    21. Pam and Bob Orr / June 3, 2020 at 5:31 pm

      Kevin was such a fine man and many hearts are breaking. May God comfort and give you all peace.

    22. Franciene Sabens / June 3, 2020 at 5:37 pm

      My sweet Krista, you and your family will be I my thoughts and prayers. May your faith carry you through this difficult time as you grieve.

    23. Tony and Jane Jones / June 3, 2020 at 5:41 pm

      Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you grieve your loss. We are so sorry. May Gods love surround you all and bring you comfort.

      Tony and Jane Jones

    24. Sherry and Carson / June 3, 2020 at 6:06 pm

      Kathy sovery very sorry for this sad sad time for you and your family!! There are no words to express our sympathy for this huge loss. Just know God is with you all and in our prayers !! God Loves You and we do too!!🙏🙏

    25. Steve&Norma Sawyer and families / June 3, 2020 at 6:09 pm

      Know that you are in our hearts…many fond memories of Kevin…❤️

    26. Greg and Holly Mann / June 3, 2020 at 6:27 pm

      We’re so sorry to hear of your loss. Pllease know your family will be in our prayers. Greg and Holly Mann

    27. Sue / June 3, 2020 at 6:38 pm

      So sorry for your loss; Kevin was a caring man to everyone he met. Love and prayers to you all.
      Sincerely, Rich and Sue Sherrick

    28. Pam Drechsel / June 3, 2020 at 6:53 pm

      Kathy and Family,

      Words cannot describe how sorry I am to hear this. Kevin was one of my classmates and was always so kind–even in high school. May God be your refuge, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Sending love and prayers to you family.

      Pam Drechsel

    29. Sue Taylor / June 3, 2020 at 6:57 pm

      Kathy – thinking of you and your whole family. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Please know I will be thinking and praying for you.

    30. Jenee’ Hackler / June 3, 2020 at 7:24 pm

      I’m so sorry! Praying for you and your family! ❤️

    31. Greg and Dorothy Kuykendall / June 3, 2020 at 8:14 pm

      The entire Smith family has been in our thoughts. We enjoyed several years of camaraderie with Kevin and Kathy and other young couples years ago. It was obvious they kept their growing family very close and those grandkids surely have the best memories! Peace to all, condolences. Might dust off the “Kathy’s Punch” recipe. ❤

    32. cookie collins / June 3, 2020 at 8:25 pm

      I am so sad for the Smith family! I pray for Gods perfect peace to surround you all.

    33. Roy & Linda Michels / June 3, 2020 at 8:41 pm

      So sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.

    34. Danny & Teresa Lankford / June 3, 2020 at 8:42 pm

      Our deepest condolences to all of Kevin’s loving family. There just are no words that can convey our thoughts at a time like this.

    35. Randal Miles / June 3, 2020 at 11:17 pm

      Kevin was very kind and always had a smile to share He was a Hard worker. He was very proud of his family.

    36. Amber Williamson (Kelsey) / June 4, 2020 at 2:01 am

      Smith Family, I am truly sad and heartbroken for all of you. Kevin was always so kind and caring and always wore a beautiful smile. I remember one time when I came out to visit (Dustin and I were going somewhere) and I honked my horn to let Dustin know I was there and it didn’t go off…..it just kept blaring and Kevin walked out from one of the buildings and asked if I was ok and just hit the steering wheel and made it stop. I was so embarrassed, but he just laughed and said it was ok.
      Besides that memory, I remember him attending basketball and choir events and he was always the the nicest, supportive dad too! I know he will be missed so very much by so many. Please know my prayers are sent for strength and comfort during these very difficult times.

    37. Tom & Linda Woods / June 4, 2020 at 3:49 am

      So sorry for your loss.Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers. Linda
      & Tom Woods

    38. Karl Grubb / June 4, 2020 at 6:51 am

      Kathy,
      I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family have my deepest sympathy.
      Karl Grubb

    39. Julia Sanford / June 4, 2020 at 7:25 am

      I am very sorry for your loss. Sending prayers your way.

    40. Kevin & Pam Wiseman / June 4, 2020 at 8:30 am

      The loss of someone so dear is never something easy to go through. God is with you!. A lot of memories from high school and four-wheeler trips. We couldn’t think of a time that Kevin didn’t have a smile. Our deepest sympathy.

    41. Danielle Lankford Kimbrell / June 4, 2020 at 9:30 am

      Kathy and kids, I am lifting you up in prayer. This is a stark reminder that we all need to stop and take notice off our own little worlds and look to those around us and what they might need. I am so very sorry. Kevin will be remembered as a family man, a farmer…a kind and generous citizen of this county. May the Lord uphold you with His righteousness right hand. -Danielle

    42. Jeff zurliene / June 4, 2020 at 10:08 am

      Kathy and family. Janette and I are so sorry for your loss. Kevin never failed to say hi and talk when we saw one another, even we didn’t see that much of each other. May god give you peace and comfort.

    43. Rick kuykendall / June 4, 2020 at 10:19 am

      Chad, so sorry to hear this. Your dad and I had some good times in high school. Remember those were the pre 5th quarter days, heh heh, so we would go to weekend away games and finish the evening with late night bowling or pickup ball games with the bumpus brothers….yes, that was actually their names. Thought of these times every time i saw your dad….it was why we always grinned at each other every time we met.

    44. Jeff & Janette Zurliene / June 4, 2020 at 10:26 am

      Sorry to hear of the passing of Kevin. Blessings of peace in your hearts at this time of need.

    45. Valerie Murbarger / June 4, 2020 at 12:41 pm

      Kathy and family—
      We’re so sorry! Kevin was such a kind man with a smile for everyone. I didn’t realize Lonny worked with Kevin at Wabash Valley years ago so your whole family holds a special place in our hearts! We pray for God to wrap you in his loving arms for comfort!
      Please don’t hesitate to ask if you’re in need!
      In Christian love,
      Lonny, Valerie, Kiersten, Sadie and Hallie🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼

    46. Terry and Karleen Lambert / June 4, 2020 at 2:31 pm

      Kathy and family, Terry and I are so sorry to hear about Kevin’s passing. We have such good and fond memories of him. He was always smiling and had a gentleness about him. May God comfort you and the family during this time.

    47. Paul & Linda French / June 4, 2020 at 3:12 pm

      Kathy and family,
      Paul and I are so sorry to hear of Kevin’s passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
      Love
      Paul and Linda French

    48. John Bumpus / June 4, 2020 at 4:51 pm

      So sad to hear of this. I graduated with Kevin from ECHS. He was always so polite and respectful of others. He had a very positive impact on me by the way he treated people. Prayers for the family.

    49. Mark & Tammy Bosecker / June 4, 2020 at 5:15 pm

      Kathy, and Family, Words may not suffice to express the heartfelt sorrow that Mark an I feel for the passing of Kevin. His kind face remains forever in our memories. Wishing you peace to bring comfort and the courage to face the days ahead. May our Lord comfort you and your loved ones.

    50. Rob, Sherry, Jonah / June 4, 2020 at 5:33 pm

      Kathy and Kids,

      We are so sorry for your loss. We pray for Gods comfort, love, and healing during this time, and the days and weeks ahead. Praying for you all.

    51. Larry & Marilyn Music / June 4, 2020 at 6:06 pm

      Dear Kathy and family, so sorry for your loss and sadness, but know that God is there, along with lots of friends to support you. We will always remember Kevin’s friendship, faith in Christ, and that big smile! You all will be in our prayers.

    52. Jason Glenn / June 4, 2020 at 7:48 pm

      I had the pleasure of working with Kevin for many years here at Toyota. I can’t imagine the pain you feel but one thing is for sure you can definitely be sure he is smiling down on his family from above. May god wrap his arms around you and your family in these trying times and provide comfort and peace.

    53. Cherri Crenshaw / June 4, 2020 at 8:35 pm

      Smith Family

      Thinking of you and wishing you moments of peace and comfort. Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.

      Deepest sympathy-

      Mike and Cherri Crenshaw Family

    54. Linda States / June 4, 2020 at 9:24 pm

      Dear Kathy & Family,
      Am so sorry to read about this.
      Please try and focus on all the good & funny memories.
      Memories will help.
      Prayers,
      Linda States

    55. Donna Marsh / June 5, 2020 at 1:00 pm

      To the Smith family. I worked with Kevin at Toyota. He was one of the kindest sincere people I ever met. God Bless you all. I am sure he is now with our Heavenly Father.
      With love and hugs,
      Donna Marsh

    56. Jerry & Sharon Ellis / June 5, 2020 at 1:28 pm

      Kathy,
      Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time and in the days ahead. I left my phone number on Melissa’s voice mail. If you ever need to talk don’t hesitate to call in time day or night!
      We Love You,
      Jerry and Sharon Ellis

    57. Kim / June 5, 2020 at 2:31 pm

      Keeping the entire Smith family in our prayers. May God wrap you in his arms and give you strength to get through this difficult time.
      Our deepest sympathy-
      Dan & Kim Bokern Family

    58. MaryJo G Barnard / June 6, 2020 at 8:07 am

      Kathy and family, I always think of Kevin’s smile: an outside indication of his gentle heart. Melissa, Chad, Dustin and Krista, you have inherited his best traits, I am sure. Added to that, your mother’s spirit of helping others will mark you in good ways, and you will take the best you’ve been given and make life better for your families and others. Kathy, the widow’s road ain’t fun, but you will go on–not as before but forward.anyway. God bless and keep you all. God helps lots.

    59. Robbin and Gary Eckel / June 6, 2020 at 9:46 am

      Our thoughts and prayers to the Smith Family. We are so sorry for your loss.
      Robbin and Gary Eckel

    60. Susan Frazier / June 7, 2020 at 12:00 am

      Our family is so sorry to hear of Kevin’s passing. May the grace of God be with you through this devastating time. Prayers for all.
      Love,
      The Frazier family.

    61. Beki Kunce / June 7, 2020 at 9:36 am

      My Deepest Sympathy . Kathy, you and your Family are in my Thoughts and Prayers.

    62. Greg and Diana Meador / June 7, 2020 at 2:14 pm

      Kathy we are so sorry to hear about Kevin know you are in our prayers and we send our Love.Sorry we couldn’t be there for you all.We Love you all and send our Prayers

      Love Greg and Diana Meador and family

    63. Bill & Michelle Thomason / June 8, 2020 at 5:25 pm

      Much love and prayers to you all as you grieve the loss of a great guy-always will remember his great smile and caring for others ♥️

    64. John Cooper / June 11, 2020 at 9:52 am

      Dear Kathy and Family,
      Kevin and I were classmates at ECHS and graduated together in 1975. At 17 years old, I was too young to work most places but was fortunate to work briefly with Kevin baling hay that summer before going to college in the fall. I will never forget Kevin’s kindness, his wonderful smile, and how he treated others. Although our time working together in the hay fields was short, Kevin left a lasting impression that I still carry today. A finer man I’ve yet to meet. He will be missed… RIP Kevin. May God bless you.

      John J. Cooper

    65. Karen Phillips Vest / June 14, 2020 at 9:16 am

      I’m so sorry to hear this. Kevin was a very kind, friendly, and sweet man. There are no words for a time like this for everyone that loved him. Only prayers for their comfort and healing.🙏🙏 You will be in my prayers. It’s hard to imagine going forward without having had such a wonderful husband, Father, and friend so rely on . God’s strength every day and remember all of the precious memories you had with him. Hugs and prayers for you to get through each day.

    66. Jamie Hayden / June 30, 2020 at 8:17 pm

      I worked with Kevin about 8-9 years ago when I first started at Toyota. He was always the most gentle and kind soul. I was in my early 20s at the time and a girl who never knew how to shut up, and Kevin always let me just babble on with a smile on his face. He very quickly became like my “work dad.” It broke my heart when I heard of his passing, and I can only imagine the pain your families feel over this. But I hope you know how so well loved Kevin was and how much he loved your family. I know I don’t know you guys, but I wish I could give you all a big hug. My deepest sympathies for this terrible time you’re going through. I promise, God will bring you through it. God bless!

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