Steve Smith, age 73, of Paducah, passed away on September 15, 2026, at Baptist Health Paducah.
Steve was born in Akron, Ohio, on February 10, 1953, to Harve and Effie Smith. He was a member of Reidland Baptist Church. He attended West Kentucky Community & Technical College.
Steve retired from the Kentucky Highway Department as a highway technician. He served in the United States Marine Corps, where he was a Military Police. There wasn’t much Steve couldn’t fix. His family always knew that if Steve couldn’t figure it out, no one could.
Steve was known for his easy smile, his laughter, and his ability to find joy in the simple things. He never complained and always seemed to meet life with a positive spirit. He was the kind of person who was always willing to lend a helping hand and share his knowledge with others.
Steve also enjoyed watching NASCAR and cheering on the races. Whether he was working on something in the garage, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a race, Steve had a way of making the people around him feel comfortable and cared for.
Steve is survived by one daughter, Lesia Reniker (Roger); one son, David Bearden (Stephanie); two brothers, Harve Smith (Celia), John Smith (Cindy); one sister-in-law, JoAnn Smith; one brother-in-law, Frankie Leath; four grandchildren, Chad Bearden, Kelley Ellis, Richard Bearden (Ashley), Samantha Hay (Sam); two great-grandchildren, Gage McKinney, Pam Bearden; one great-great-grandchild, Zaliana Bearden.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Beverly Smith; one sister, Sheila Smith; three brothers, Dennis Smith, Bobby Smith, Roger Smith; one sister-in-law, Janice Leath; and his parents.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Kansas Cemetery, with his nephew, Glen Smith, officiating.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN. 38105.
Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
You may share a memory of Steve or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com
