Kenneth Avory Smith

Kenneth A. Smith, 75, of Chandler AZ passed away on May 1, 2024. He was born in Marshalltown, IA on October 28, 1948 and grew up working on his father's farm. After graduation, Ken went on to Morningside University where he received his Bachelor's degree. He entered the Army in 1970 and served in the Special Forces for the Army during the Vietnam war. After that, Ken had a career in both horse racing and education as a school district business administrator. For 12 years he was a methodist minister and received his Doctorate of Ministry in May 2000. He left ministry and returned to Arizona and school administration in 2002. Ken met Peggy Carbajal in 2002 and they were married in 2010. He always had a passion for gardening and completed the master gardener's program from the University of Arizona in 2014. He continued to volunteer his time there for many years. Ken and Peggy took many cruises and enjoyed traveling to many countries in Europe Canada, Iceland and South America. He is survived by his wife Peggy, children Nicole and Alex Carbajal, daughter-in law Savanna Carbajal and grandson Javier.

A memorial service for Kenneth will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A committal service with military honors will occur Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 12:00 PM, followed by a catered reception. All services will be held at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery: 10940 E. Chandler Heights Rd., Chandler, AZ 85248.