Richard King Smith

Richard King Smith, age 88, of Gallatin, Tennessee, passed away on August 25, 2024. He was born on December 19, 1935 in Chicago, IL. He was preceded in death by his father, Franklin E. Smith; mother, Helen E. (Hoover) Smith; and brother, Frank Smith. 

Richard attended Ripon College, in Ripon, WI and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1953. He served as an Administrative Specialist for the U.S. Army at NATO Headquarters in Germany. Following his military service, he worked in the automotive industry for over 30 years. He was also a member of St. Timothy Lutheran Church for over 20 years. 

He enjoyed vintage vehicles, could never turn down a pet his family brought home, and was most recently pack leader to Paddington and Suzie. He completed the New York Marathon. And if you ever said more than a word to him, you'd know he was a songwriter too.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Sharlene Smith; sons Curtis Smith (Sherry), Douglas Smith; daughter, Pamela McCullen (Jason); grandchildren, Whitney Hammaker (Daniel), Kayla Smith, Erin Schroeder, Eric McCullen, Alex McCullen; great grandchildren, Lynlee Hammaker, Henry Hammaker, and one more on the way.

Richard was a loving husband, father, and papa. His children will never forget his "rules to live by." His family and friends will remember his great sense of humor, especially that laugh.

A Celebration of his life will be held at St. Timothy Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at 11:00 am. (650 E. Main St. Hendersonville TN 37075). Visitation will be held before the service at 10:30 am. After the service, everyone is invited to the church's Founders Hall for military honors and lunch.