Phillip Leroy Smith

Our family has lost an amazing, loving husband, father, brother and grandpa.

Phillip Leroy Smith, 79 of Jeromesville, passed peacefully from this life on Friday, February 5, 2021 following a long battle with kidney disease. His wife and children were able to be by his side and surround him with love.

Born in Ashland, Ohio on November 11, 1941, Phil was the oldest child of the late Leland and Frances (Fulk) Smith. He was a 1959 graduate of Jeromesville High School and a lifelong resident of the town.

After graduation he spent many years working at HYCO in Ashland and eventually moved on to work for his brother-in-law, Ron, at Ron Burge Trucking, where he discovered his passion for driving truck. From there he went on to drive for Archway Cookies in Ashland until his retirement. He was affectionately known to his trucking buddies as "Rookie" and his local friends as "Smitty".

Phil had a love for all sports and spent much of his younger adult life playing in various men's softball leagues. He also proudly served many years as a volunteer with the Jeromesville Fire Department.

Phil is survived by his wife, Sherry, whom he married on June 30, 1962. They celebrated 58 years of marriage in 2020. Phil and Sherry have 3 children, Kathy (Gary) Waites of Pickerington,OH, Rob Smith of Ashland, OH and Amy (Bob) Saffle of Mifflin, OH. He also has 4 grandchildren that he truly adored; Garrett, Kyler and Kamryn Waites of Pickerington, OH and Hailey Burger of Ashland, OH. He is also survived by his brother Terry (Becky) Smith of San Clemente, CA and his sister Diana (Daniel) Mullen of Springfield, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leland and Frances (Fulk) Smith.

Phil was a very social person who greatly enjoyed the company of his many amazing friends and family members. His family wishes to extend a heartfelt Thank You to all the "cell phone" friends, Lyn-Way breakfast gang, trucking buddies, Fresenius Dialysis staff, and special neighbors, Dave and Suzie Foster, whose companionship and prayers helped get Phil through his challenging journey.

Phil will be cremated and a Celebration of Life service will be planned for a future date. Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jeromesville Fire Department or a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.fickesfuneralhome.com.

***Dad, we weren't ready to say good-bye, but are at peace knowing you are no longer in pain. Thank you for providing a wonderful life for our family full of such sweet memories.

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