Rickey Lee Smith Sr.

Rickey L. Smith, 71, of Muncie, passed away Thursday afternoon, June 13, 2024, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. He was born on February 6, 1953, in Muncie, Indiana, to Bob and Joan (Brand) Smith. Rick was a longtime member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, where he volunteered in the food pantry and was active in the Knights of Columbus. A deeply religious man, Rick enjoyed engaging in debates and conversations about faith, religion, and doctrine. Rick dedicated many years of his career as a highly skilled auto body repairman and shop manager. His expertise and leadership were invaluable at both Broadway Motors and Northwest Wrecker. He had a deep passion for cars, often participating in the Demolition Derby at the Delaware County Fair many years ago. His diverse hobbies included working on and building computers, model trains, gardening, making rosaries, and, of course, cars. He was also an avid Star Trek fan. Survivors include his son, Rickey L. (wife Kristina) Smith Jr.; siblings, Steve Smith, Jayne (husband, Robert) Donathan, Chris (wife, Johnetta) Smith, Thomas Smith, and Bobbie Devereux; grandchildren, Cole, Carly, Paige, Trinity, Justice, Faith, Robbie; a great-granddaughter, Navy; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bobbie L. and Joan F. Smith; his beloved son, Robert Lee Smith; and a brother, Robert A. Smith. Services are pending at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, 4600 West Kilgore Avenue, Muncie, Indiana, 47304. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at elmridgefuneralhome.com for the family.