08/31/2026
Jeffrey Ryan Smith was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on September 17, 1991, to his loving parents, Tonia Louise Schone and Kasey Ryan Smith.
From the very beginning, Jeff was a child who was deeply loved by his family and everyone fortunate enough to know him. Throughout his life, he had a way of bringing joy, laughter, and happiness to the people around him. Jeff was the kind of person who made friends easily and treated everyone with kindness. He never met a stranger and was always willing to put others before himself.
Jeff was a gifted and passionate athlete. He participated in baseball, basketball, and football, giving his best and enjoying every opportunity to compete. He also loved skateboarding and showed tremendous natural ability and potential. Whether he was playing a sport, riding his skateboard, or simply spending time with friends and family, Jeff brought his own energy and enthusiasm to everything he did.
Jeff attended grade school in Louisville, Kentucky and middle school in Mustang, Oklahoma, before moving back to Louisville, Kentucky, where he graduated from Pleasure Ridge High School in 2009. During his school years, he formed friendships and memories that remained an important part of his life.
Those who knew Jeff will remember him not only for his athletic abilities, but for the person he was. He was a friend to everyone. He cared about the people around him and had a generous heart. Jeff had a special way of making people feel welcome, accepted, and valued. His kindness and willingness to help others were qualities that defined him.
Jeffrey was taken from us on August 26, 2026, leaving behind family, friends, and loved ones whose lives were forever changed by knowing him. His absence will be felt every day, and the memories he created with those around him will remain in their hearts.
Although the pain of losing Jeff is difficult to put into words, we can take comfort in knowing that he is no longer alone. He is now reunited with the family members who went before him, who will welcome him with open arms, surround him with love, and help him find his way into the next chapter of his journey.
Jeff’s time with us was far too short, but the love he gave and the joy he brought to others will never be forgotten. He will live on through the memories of his family and friends, through the stories they share, and through every person whose life he touched.
Jeffrey Ryan Smith will be loved always, missed every day, and remembered forever.
May he rest peacefully, surrounded by the love of those who went before him and those who will carry his memory forward.
Revelation 21:4: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore."
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8
