Cecil "Wayne" Smith

Cecil Wayne Smith, known to all as Wayne, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on March 15, 1946, in Richmond, Kentucky, Wayne lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and a genuine love for others.

Wayne was the youngest of twelve children born to Robert F. Smith and Martha (Farmer) Smith. Raised on a farm in Jackson County, Kentucky, he learned the values of hard work, humility, and generosity that would guide him throughout his life. It was there that he developed a lifelong love of gardening, woodworking, and building with his hands.

While attending Jackson County High School, Wayne met the love of his life, Sue Tincher. They began dating as teenagers, married while Wayne was attending Georgetown College, and built a loving marriage that spanned sixty years. Together they raised two sons and created a home filled with faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family.

For thirty-five years, Wayne served as a teacher, coach, and mentor, spending most of his career with West Carrollton City Schools. As a fifth and sixth grade teacher, basketball coach, technology coordinator, and founder of the student news and media center, he inspired generations of students through creativity, hands-on learning, and genuine care. Many former students later requested that their own children be placed in Mr. Smith's classroom, a testament to the lasting impact he had on their lives.

Beyond the classroom, Wayne was a gifted carpenter and woodworker who could seemingly build or fix anything. Whether remodeling homes, constructing additions, or volunteering countless hours helping friends, neighbors, and his church, he was always willing to lend a hand. Wayne found joy in life's simple pleasures: tending his tomato garden, cheering on Kentucky basketball, remembering the yellow 1967 Camaro he proudly owned as a young man, sharing stories of growing up in eastern Kentucky, writing delightfully terrible poems for family Christmas gifts and spending time with those he loved. More than anything, he treasured his family and considered them his greatest accomplishment.

He is survived by his beloved wife of sixty years, Sue Smith; his sons, Jason W. Smith (Heather) and Justin Smith (Yvonne); his cherished grandchildren, Tyler, Reese, Emma Grace, and Nathan; his brother, Paul Smith; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and former students whose lives were enriched by his kindness and example.

Those who knew Wayne will remember a man with a steady presence, quiet wisdom, generous heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. He believed the measure of a good life was a loving family, honest work, and serving others without expecting recognition. He leaves behind a family who adored him, generations of students who learned from him, and countless lives made better simply because he was part of them.

Funeral services will be held at Miami Shores Baptist Church, 4000 Vance Rd, Moraine, OH 45439, on Monday, June 29, 2026, with family visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m., open visitation at noon and services to follow at 1:00 p.m.

Interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, 401 N Miami Ave, West Carrollton, OH 45449.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Miami Shores Baptist Church. 

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