Thomas Owen Smith, age 72, of Louisville, Illinois, passed away Tuesday afternoon, June 9, 2026, at Clay County Hospital.

      He was born March 15, 1954, in Taylorville, the son of Raymond Josiah and Mary Lawrence (Sims) Smith.  He was united in marriage to Minnie P. Shoopman on December 24, 1974, in Effingham, and together they have shared 51 wedding anniversaries.

      Tom was a graduate of North Clay High School.  He worked as a Production Manager for Sparton Manufacturing in Flora.  He enlisted in the U.S. Army in Louisville, Kentucky, later transferring to the Army National Guard and serving his country for 6 years.  Tom loved old cars, including his yellow ‘56 Chevy.  You could often find him tinkering around the house listening to classic rock and drinking an ice cold Pepsi.  He enjoyed fishing, gardening, writing poetry, and eating sweets.

      He is survived by his wife: Minnie Smith of Louisville; children: Jonathan T. Smith of Louisville and Angela M. (Darrell S.) Horath of Altamont; 6 grandchildren: Bryant, Trey, Lane, Tice, Levi, and Chase; and a brother: Joseph A. (Christine N.) Smith.

      He was preceded in passing by his parents; a brother: Clifford (Barbara) Smith; and 2 sisters: Carolyn (John) Marak and Pearl (Joy) Cruthis.

      A visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Military funeral honors will be presented at 5 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to the family to assist with final expenses, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com