Howard Mike Smith

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Howard "Mike" Smith, a beloved resident of Centralia, Illinois, who left us on Monday, January 20th, 2025, at the age of 72. Born in Centralia on Friday, August 8th, 1952, Mike lived a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family, and friends. A lifelong resident of Centralia, Mike was a devoted companion to Cathy Russell of Centralia. He is survived by his cherished children: Amy Smith, Melissa Russell and significant other Bradley Murray, Sarah McElroy and husband Anthony all of Centralia, Amanda Pate and husband Brandon of Kentucky, Ashley Applegate and husband Kris of Centralia and Ryan Russell also of Centralia. His legacy continues with his brothers, William and Robert Smith and sisters, Vickie Campbell, Sharon Martin, and Lola Smith all of Centralia. Grandchildren Mackenzie, Riley, Lucas, Ava, Ryder, Audrey, Tessa, Madalynn, Ari, Brantley, Bentlee, Wyatt, Maesyn, Lincoln, Kamryn, Knoxley, and Blayre will fondly remember their grandfather’s love and guidance. Also surviving is several nieces and nephews. Mike's life was also blessed with his dear friend Mike Berning of Walnut Hill. Though predeceased by his parents, Howard Smith and Delores Wilkey, brothers David and Rickey Smith, sister Linda Rider, cousin Terry Marshall, and special friends Raymond "Snake" Berning and Denny, their memories remained deeply embedded in his heart. Mike proudly served in Vietnam in the Army and Navy, and later dedicated his career to his work at AC Man and Swan Corporation, where he was a well-respected factory worker. In his leisure, he found joy in riding his Harley, golfing, and participating in washer tournaments. Above all, Mike enjoyed spending time drinking beer and listening to music with his family and treasured friends, who were the light of his life. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate Mike’s life at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. A visitation will be held from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, at the Funeral Home. His family encourages those who knew Howard to come and share in his memory. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family and will be accepted by the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street in Centralia, IL 62801 (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Mike's family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com or the Funeral Home's Facebook page. May he rest in peace, forever riding on the highways of heaven.

Howard Mike Smith

August 8, 1952 - January 20, 2025