Bobby Smith, 87, of Paducah, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 27, 2025, in the caring arms of his granddaughter, Katie Hagan, at home. He was born in Waverly, Tennessee, on September 5, 1937, the eldest of seven siblings to Harve Webster and Effie Pearl (Stewart) Smith.
Bobby graduated from Central High School in Akron, Ohio in 1955. He then had a nine-year stint in the armed services, resigning his first lieutenant commission in the National Guard to permanently settle in Paducah with his wife, JoAnn Rucks Smith, whom he married on September 21, 1959. He began working at Pittsburgh Metallurgical in Calvert City the following day. He proudly earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1966 from the University of Kentucky, and was a member of the Tau Beta Pi and Pi Tau Sigma fraternities. He spent several years as an active member in the Lions Club, Elks Club, and American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He retired from CCMA after 51 years of service. Bobby attended United Central Presbyterian Church.
Bobby was known for his relentless work ethic and unwavering love and commitment to his family. Throughout his life, he was determined to provide for those he loved, and he did so with strength, perseverance, and a sense of purpose. His love and generosity will leave a lasting impact on those around him.
Bobby is survived by his wife, JoAnn; his children, Glynn (Ging) Smith, Susan (Stephen) Hagan, and Andrew (Mina) Smith; brothers Harve Smith, Steve Smith, and Johnny Smith; nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Harve and Effie Smith; brothers Dennis Smith and Roger Smith, and sister Sheila Smith.
Funeral services will be held at noon, February 1, 2025 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Chaplain Tom Salovino officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be that morning from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Milner and Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association.
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