Ed, lovingly known as “Papa,” passed away on June 25, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Ed was a proud Vietnam veteran who answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States military in 1967. He served honorably in Vietnam, including time in Da Nang as an artillery radio operator. His courage, dedication, and quiet strength remained with him throughout his life.
After returning home, Ed built a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. He enjoyed a long career at Steelcase, where he eventually retired. Never one to sit still, he continued working with the United States Postal Service before joining Hardner & Warner Nursery, where his lifelong love of nature flourished.
Through his dedication and passion for horticulture, he became a Master Gardener, a title he carried with great pride. Whether tending flowers, nurturing trees, or sharing gardening advice, Ed found joy in helping things—and people—grow.
For nearly 57 years, Ed shared a beautiful marriage with the love of his life, Annie Heaven Smith. Together they built a family rooted in faith, love, hard work, and unwavering devotion to one another. Annie was the center of Ed’s world, and their marriage was a testament to enduring love, commitment, and partnership. His greatest joy in life was his beloved wife, Annie, followed closely by the many dogs and cats they loved and cared for throughout the years. Their home was always filled with the companionship of cherished pets, who were as much a part of the family as anyone else.
Ed was very active and deeply committed to his church family at Alto Faith Bible Church, where his faith was lived out through service, fellowship, and love for others. He was also known for his vibrant personality and his love of bright, festive outfits, which reflected his joyful spirit.
Ed was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jeremy J. Smith, and by all three of his brothers.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 57 years, Annie Smith; his oldest sibling and only sister, Sally; his son Eric Smith and wife Leanna Smith; grandsons Parker Smith and wife Brooke Smith, and Pierce Smith; great-granddaughters Oaklee Smith and Arlee Smith; his son Kirby John Smith and wife Diana Smith; granddaughters Maycee Smith and Emmy Smith; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were blessed by knowing him.
Ed’s legacy is one of love, service, humility, and unwavering dedication. He will be remembered for his warm smile, quiet wisdom, generous heart, steadfast faith, and the unconditional love he gave so freely to his family, friends, and animals. He lived a life of integrity, kindness, and compassion, leaving behind countless memories that will be treasured forever.
A celebration of Ed’s life will be held on August 1st from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Lowell Showboat, located at 110 Riverwalk Plaza, Lowell, MI 49331. In honor of Ed’s joyful spirit and love for bright, festive clothing, guests are encouraged to wear bold and colorful outfits.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Ed’s beloved church, Alto Faith Bible Church. A donation box will be available at the celebration of life for those who wish to contribute.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
Ed will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.