Edward Rae Smith, 89, of Alton, died at his home with his family by his side on Feb. 21, 2025.

Ed was born on Dec. 18, 1935 in Greene County, IL and was the son of Matthew and Verna (Book) Smith.

Ed worked in many different areas during his lifetime.  He was a wheat farmer, a truck driver, a carpenter, plumber and electrician.  He laid carpet, remodeled homes, owned restaurants, and was a farm machinery mechanic.

Ed is survived by his children: Pam Lopez of Derby, KS, Larry Eubanks of Alton, Kathy Eubanks of St. Joseph, MO, Viola Link and her husband Rick of Brighton, IL, Mike Smith of Meadowbrook, IL, Eldon Smith and his wife Cathy of Alton, Vickie Null and her husband Dewaine of Wood River, IL, Leisha Clark of St. Joseph, MO, Rick Smith and his wife Karen of Bethalto, IL and Terrie Frederick and partner David Nelson of Great Falls, SC; sister: Esther Arnold of Wrights, IL; 32 grandchildren; 69 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; plus numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his wife: Stella (Zimmer) Smith; son: Edward R. Smith Jr.; granddaughter: McKenna; sister: Edna Smith Brandt; brother-in-law: Arthur Brandt; brothers: Lemeul Hicks and Albert Smith; and daughter-in-law: Darlene Smith.

The family will hold graveside services at 1 p.m. Monday, Apr. 28 at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Coffeyville, KS.  Following the service, 2-4 p.m., there will be a gathering with food and conversation at the Senior Citizens Activities Center, 601 S. Walnut Street in Coffeyville.  Please RSVP by calling 803-487-9882 at your earliest convenience to assist with catering arrangements.  The family looks forward to celebrating Edward's life with you.

Arrangements with online information and guestbook through Paynic Home for Funerals may be found at www.paynicfh.com