Willard Reasy Smith, 89, of Columbus, died at 8:08 p.m. Thursday, March 2, 2023, at Columbus Regional Hospital. Willard was born on July 1, 1933, in Brown County, Ind. to Reasy Smith and Gledith West Smith.
Willard was a proud Army Veteran and was the oldest living member of Ogilville Christian Church. He retired from Arvin Industries after 45 years of service. Willard was affectionately called a “Fix-It-Man” by his family and neighbors. He enjoyed repairing small engines, carpentry, woodworking, and gardening flowers, and produce.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 Wednesday, March 8, 2023, at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Rev. Martin Wright officiating. Calling will be from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Burial will be held at St. Paul’s Methodist Cemetery in Ogilville, IN with military honors conducted by the Bartholomew County Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ogilville Christian Church through the funeral home.
Survivors include his son, Reasy Smith of Columbus, Ind.; daughter, Debbie Burnette of Nashville, Ind.; brothers, Ivan Smith of Columbus, Ind., Jerry (Risa) Smith of Norman, Ind.; sisters, Clara Rose of Columbus, Ind., Elma (Ron) Trendleman of Columbus, Ind., Lois (Don) Suiter of Shelbyville, Ind.; grandchildren, Justin Kennedy of Lafayette, Ind., Brent Burnette of Columbus, Ind., and Elliott Burnette of Nashville, Ind.; loving companion and best friend, Peggy Olmstead of Columbus, Ind.
Willard was preceded in death by his parents, Reasy and Gledith Smith, and brother, Alva Smith.
