Keith Ray Smith, 81, of Troy, passed away on Feb. 21, 2025. Born on September 21, 1943, in Davis County to Mary Gibson and Guy Smith, Keith lived a life defined by unwavering love, quiet kindness, and a deep-seated spirit of service. He will be profoundly missed by his beloved family, cherished friends, and all who were fortunate to know him.
Growing up in what was known as “Dog Patch” in Bloomfield, Keith was one of ten Smith children, a lively brood that instilled in him the values of family and community. He attended Bloomfield Elementary and graduated from Davis County Community High School, where his mischievous spirit and warm heart made him a beloved figure. His youth was filled with the simple joys of small-town life; playful pranks on unsuspecting neighbors, the satisfying click of billiard balls at the Bloomfield pool hall, and the friendly competition of bowling and pinball. These early passions shaped his character, fostering a lifelong love of both camaraderie and skillful pursuit.
On May 22, 1965, Keith found his soulmate in Lelah Kay Prevo. Their marriage, a testament to enduring love, spanned 59 years, a lifetime of shared laughter, quiet moments, and devotion to each other. Together, they raised two children, Angela Shipley (Jeff) and Travis Smith (Emily), who became the center of Keith’s world. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a doting grandfather, finding joy in simple pleasures like playing cards, boating on sunny afternoons, and cheering on his family at countless sporting events.
Keith’s dedication extended beyond his family to his lifelong career at Troy Elevator. With a brief stint at the Bloomfield Newspaper, he poured his heart into Troy Elevator for more than 60 years, becoming an indispensable part of its fabric. From humble beginnings to mastering every facet of the operation, Keith’s work was more than a job; it was a calling. He treated everyone—farmers, executives, and colleagues—with the same respect and generosity, earning their lasting admiration. His final day was spent doing what he loved most, a testament to his loyalty and work ethic.
Beyond his work and family, Keith was a soft-spoken but well-known part of the community. He was a member of Christ Community Church and served as the Treasurer of the Troy Park Board, always eager to contribute to the betterment of his hometown. His selfless spirit touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of kindness that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Keith’s memory will be cherished by his beloved wife, Kay; his children, Angela (Jeff) and Travis (Emily); his grandchildren, Hadley DeFraia (Shane), Sydney Smith, Avery Smith, Bode Smith, and Georgia Smith; his great-grandchildren, Emilia DeFraia and Zeke DeFraia; his siblings, Barry (Doris) Smith, Marcia (Jerry) Lippert, and Pam Davison; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings Estellene McClurg, Carolyn Ensminger, Florence Roberts, Ronald Smith, Michael Smith, Diana Lawson, and an infant sister.
Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at the Wagler Funeral Home in Bloomfield with Pastor Jacob Sandholm officiating. Burial will be at the IOOF Cemetery in Bloomfield. Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. on Friday with the family present to greet friends from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Community Church in Keith’s memory and mailed to the funeral home at: Keith Smith Memorial, Wagler Funeral Home, 304 W. Jefferson St., Bloomfield, Iowa 52537.
