Robert Samuel Smith

     Robert Samuel Smith, age 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at his home in Milo, MO. Robert was born November 4, 1937, in Nevada, MO to Ralph W. and Doris Opal (White) Smith. 

     On June 8, 1957, He married Mae Foley.  Robert graduated from Nevada High School Class of 1955. He worked at the City Hospital for many years and then as a refrigeration mechanic at the State Hospital where he retired in 2002.   He acquired the nickname “Turkey Bob” long ago. He loved John Deere Tractors and farming. He loved going to the High School football games and was a part of a group of men that established the Milo Fire and First Responders in 1978, where he volunteered for over 30 years.

     Robert was known for his limitless love; he was kind and generous and prided himself on helping wherever he was needed. He was very passionate about the love he had for his family and friends. Robert loved to joke around and pull pranks and put a smile on everyone’s face.

    Robert leaves behind his wife of 68 years, Mae Smith; his children, Bonnie Coale and husband Clay, and Kathie Foster; grandchildren Melissa (Marc) Fritter, Jill (Travis) Nelson, Emily (Fred) Smith, Jordan Smith, Jacob Foster, Chance (Susan) Foster and Rianna Simpkins;  great grandchildren Macyn (Abby) Nelson, Cole (Jess) Nelson, Derrick Fritter, Kali Fritter,  Serinity, Trevor & Tyler Foster; a sister Marilyn Fritts, as well as many nieces and nephews.

       Preceding him in death are his parents, Ralph & Doris Smith; two sisters, Wilma Irwin and Melva Keithly; a daughter, Julie Smith; a grandson, Jason Coale, a niece, Belinda Beisley,  a brother-in-law, John Fritts, brother-in-law, Alfred Keithley.

     A special thank you to Whitney Forkner and Terre Lyn and the entire Gentiva Hospice team.

       Services will be officiated by Mike Irick at 2:00 pm, Monday, January 19, 2026, at Ferry Funeral Home in Nevada, MO.  

     The family will receive friends from 1-2:00 prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home.

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