Michael Smith Obituary

It is with profound sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived that the family of Michael John Smith, the kindest and most compassionate soul this world was ever graced with, announce his passing Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at the age of 55. He leaves behind a legacy of love, selflessness, and unwavering kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. He spent his last moments in his home, surrounded by love and his faithful companion, Toby, the best dog a man could have. Born April 28, 1969, in Steubenville, Ohio, Mike, a devoted Christian and member of The Experience Church located in St Clairsville, Ohio, dedicated his life to serving others with an open heart and an unfailing sense of generosity. Whether it was offering a listening ear, extending a helping hand, or simply sharing his warm smile or a crazy story about his life, he made every person feel valued and cherished. To Mike, there were no strangers, only friends he had not yet met. Whether it was at an auction, beside a red tractor, among rolling hills on a farm, or on a winding trail through the mountains, if you met Mike, you became part of his story and he never forgot the impression you made. Mike found joy in the simplest acts of kindness, from mentoring young men to working tirelessly to better his community. His compassion knew no boundaries; he was a safe haven for the brokenhearted, a beacon of hope for the lost, and a steady rock for his family and friends. His wisdom was matched only by his humility, and his gentle spirit inspired everyone who crossed his path. He believed that the greatest legacy one could leave was love and he gave it freely, without expectation. His memory is cherished by his loving wife, Joelle VanSkiver Smith; her daughter, Lyndsay R. Shankle; his stepdaughter, Joni (John) Susa; stepson, Jason (Lisa) Britt; their mother, Terry Smith; and his grandsons, Luke and Brady Susa, Jameson Britt, AJ Ruffalo, and Xander Britt. Also surviving are Mike's brother, Edward (Robin) Smith; sister, Debra (Ken) Moon; nieces, Stephanie Smith, Casey (Nick) Cox, Emily (Grant Montgomery) Smith, Alyssa (Luke) Borkowski; and nephew, Ryan Moon. Mike will also be deeply missed by his mother-in-law, Lynn (Larry Comfort) VanSkiver; his father-in-law, Richard (Joan) VanSkiver; his brother-in- law, Jason (Stacie) VanSkiver and their sons, Joel and Jack VanSkiver; and a community forever grateful for the example he set. While we mourn his loss deeply, we celebrate the beautiful life he lived and the countless ways he made the world a better place. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Rose Smith. In honor of Mike's memory, we encourage all who loved him to carry forward his legacy of compassion. Do a kind deed, lend an ear to someone in need, or simply share the light that he so freely gave to all, and spend your time wisely as you can't earn more. And never forget that every day is a great day if you make it that way! In lieu of flowers and at the request of his wife and family, please consider a donation to the Mrs. Claus Club of Bentlyville, an organization that creates care packages for cancer patients and was very close to Mike's heart. Donate at P.O. Box 38, Eighty Four, PA 15330 or visit mrsclausclubofbentlyville.com Rest easy, dearest Michael. The world is brighter because of you, and you will forever be missed. In our darkest moments, God is still good. Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, January 31, in Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 219 Main Street, Claysville, PA 15323 (724-663-7373). www.youngfhinc.com Additional visitation hours will be from 9 to 11 a.m., the time of service, Saturday, February 1, in the funeral home. At the request of the family, burial will be private.