James "Moonshiner" Kenneth Smith

Funeral service for James Kenneth “Moonshiner” Smith, of Lincoln, Alabama, will be held on Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at 11:00 AM from the chapel of Kilgroe Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo on Wednesday at 2:00 PM.

Mr. Smith is survived by 2 sons, Kenneth Wayne Smith (Natashia) of KY and Adam Braxton Smith (Stephanie) of Pell City, AL; sister, Ethelene “Sis” Hallman; sister-in-law, Monnie Smith; grandchildren, Adalyn Kathy Smith, Chelsey Desiree Smith, Kyle Wayne Smith, Ariana Leigh Shepperd, Aliza Renee Melchor, Anderson James Smith; great-granddaughter, Audrey Joyce Hatfield; a host of nieces and nephews; best friend, Bruce Griffin; sister-in-law, Kandi Griffin – family by love.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Franklin Smith and Elsie Irene Murphy; brothers, Clavis, Jack, Lewis, and Charles Smith; sister, Vonnie; and the love of his life, Kathy Smith.

The pallbearers are Brandon Franklin, Scott Lee, Jarrad Gray, David Kay, Feliciano "Papi" Medel, and Bruce Griffin.

Honorary pallbearers are Tony Gray, Embry Robertson, Snuffy Phillips, the employees of Griffin Rail Car, Griffin Laser Engraving, and Griffin Services.

Kenneth was a decorated Vietnam Vet – a hero who was proud to have served his country for 10 years, November of 1963 to December of 1973. During his time in Vietnam, he was awarded 3 Purple Heart Medals among many other decorations, medals, badges, and commendations. He reenlisted the second time, knowing he would serve in Vietnam.

Affectionately known as “Moonshiner”, he was full of personality. He loved joking around and giving a hard time to those he loved, which was many. He was as stubborn as they come with a rough exterior but could be the kindest, funny, loving person. He loved his family and friends. He had a very special, close bond with his older sister known to everyone as “Sis”.

He loved all the animals on the farm but especially Moose – St. Bernard – They loved each other and had a special bond.

He had a passion for Nascar, as well as local dirt track racing, cheering on his friends. He took pride in working hard and serving his country. As tough as he was, he was no match for cancer. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed, leaving a void that can never be filled.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kilgroefh.com for the Smith family.