Kenneth Eugene Smith

Kenneth (Ken) Eugene Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024, at the age of 91. A man of integrity, kindness, intelligence, and dedication, Ken lived a long and fulfilling life surrounded by those who loved him.

Born on December 11, 1932, in Dickson, Tennessee, Ken’s family lived in East Nashville where his dad worked for the L&N railroad. He remembered riding his bicycle across the Cumberland River in 1940 when it was frozen solid. His family moved to White Bluff, Tennessee when he was in his early teens, where Ken played basketball, enjoyed turning over the outhouse when the principal was inside and finished as valedictorian at William James High School in 1951.

Ken proudly served his country stateside during the Korean War in the U.S. Army, where he was stationed in Fort Lee, Virgina. After his military Service, he worked for Mason & Hanger as one of the first military computer contractors at the recently declassified compound called “The Birdcage” which was located northwest of Clarksville, Tennessee. This facility housed part of the U.S. nuclear arsenal during the early years of the Cold War in an intricate, well-sealed bunker system and when asked what he did he would just say “I counted things”.

Ken had the unique experience of personally witnessing and being actively involved in the evolution of computing technology from its modest beginnings to the vast capacities we rely on today. He embraced change and was always the first to learn and adapt to new technology. Ken started his 36-year career at IKG Industries in 1964, where was responsible for all IT systems, custom programming and accounting systems. His work ethic, attention to detail, and leadership made him a valued and respected colleague. Ken was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the care he took in mentoring others and fostering a spirit of teamwork.

Upon retiring from IKG Industries, Ken dedicated much of his time to volunteer work. He was an active participant in several local organizations, always ready to lend a hand where it was needed. Ken spent 15 years donating his time and talents as a volunteer at Summit Medical Center. Whether it was helping at Wilson County Master Gardener events or supporting the restoration of the Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Railway No. 576 steam locomotive, his selflessness and generosity made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.

He loved his Stoners Glen neighborhood and enjoyed helping neighbors with their technological challenges and keeping everyone informed of community events. He especially enjoyed his breakfast and lunch outings with the ROMEO (Retired Old Men Eating Out) group.

In his personal life, Ken cherished the time he spent with his family and friends. He was a loving husband to his wife, Faye, and a devoted father to his three boys. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, and he was never happier than when surrounded by loved ones, whether at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or quiet afternoons spent sharing stories and laughter. Ken had a passion for exploring new restaurants and savoring diverse cuisines. Whether it was trying the latest local spot or revisiting a favorite eatery, he loved the experience of dining out, experimenting with new hot sauces and sharing meals with family and friends.

Ken is survived by his wife of 64 years, Fay Oakley Smith, sons, Tommy Smith (Elizabeth), Alan Smith (Sandi), and Mark Smith (Trisha); six grandchildren; Andrea Duncan (Hunter), Alaina Shefelton (Paul), Amelia Clark (Seaver), Matthew Smith, Annah Smith and Evan Smith; three step-grandchildren, Trey Hyde, Michaela Hyde and Marley Hyde and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Charles Ira Smith and Elizabeth Dickson Smith, Brother, Jerry Wayne Smith, daughter-in-law Jennifer Taylor Smith and an infant brother.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 13, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Monday, October 14, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Hermitage Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 14, at 11:00 AM at Hermitage Funeral Home followed by burial at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ken’s memory to the Nashville Steam Preservation Society. https://www.nashvillesteam.org/donate/ Trains always held a special place in Ken's heart, and one of his greatest goals was to see the full restoration of Old No. 576. The Smith family would also like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Todd Dorfman, the ER team, and ICU staff at Summit Medical Center for their compassion and extraordinary care that they provided.

Ken’s life was a testament to living with purpose, humility, and gratitude. His legacy of service, both to his country and his community, and the love he shared with his family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Kenneth Smith will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on through the many lives he touched during his remarkable 91 years.