Kent Michael Smith

Kent Michael Smith, affectionately known to friends and family as "Smitty," departed this world on the early morning of July 17, 2025, at his beloved home in Gig Harbor, Washington. Born on July 6, 1958, in Dayton, Ohio, he lived a life woven with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A classically trained French chef, Smitty poured his heart into his culinary craft, but that was just one thread in the rich tapestry of his life. Beyond the kitchen, he explored various vocations, dabbling in plumbing and landscaping—fields he cherished just as deeply. Education played a significant role in his formative years, culminating in his graduation from Northmont High in 1976, where he was not only a proud member of the band but also a trumpet player whose notes resonated beyond the high school halls.

His early service as a Boiler Technician Third Class in the Reserve of the United States Navy introduced him to the world, but it was his roots in family that anchored him throughout his life. A devoted father and grandfather, Smitty found unparalleled joy in the company of his grandchildren—Shunlata, Mahnya, Aleshek, and Rocky. He was there for every birthday and holiday, always bringing his contagious laughter to every occasion, even if it meant laughing at his own jokes.

The warmth of summer days often found him immersed in the splashes of a pool or lounging on a boat in the sun-drenched lakes, surrounded by the giggles of his cherished grandkids. His heart swelled with pride as he shared his love of fishing, road trips with his loyal dog Coco, and countless camping adventures, painting memories that would linger long after his passing.

Beyond the realm of family, Smitty was a stalwart friend, a man whose acts of kindness knew no bounds. A little bit of a grouch, he would poke fun with a playful jest, but his loving spirit always shone brightly. He was known for his generosity, the type of person who would willingly share his last dollar or the shirt off his back with someone in need. Whether it was through his delicious barbecued feasts or his dedicated service as a Suquamish Warrior, his love for giving back was evident, particularly towards veterans—a testament to the deep love he held for his country.

Smitty's passions were as diverse as his many talents. An artist at heart, he reveled in drawing and found pleasure in puzzles, crosswords, and coloring books. His adventurous spirit led him to drag races, casinos, and even the gun range, while his affinity for golf, horticulture, and music lingered as a sonorous melodrama in the backdrop of his life. He was never far from laughter, always ready to engage in a game of billiards or borrowing a moment of nostalgia while diving into the delightful sounds of his trumpet.

Left to cherish his memory are his mother-in-law, Harriet Webber; ex-wife and lifelong friend, Rene Smith; his sons, Jeramie and Cody Smith; siblings and their spouses, Teri and Thad Bayes, Dawn and Frank Nichols, and Michael Rogers; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews. Smitty's larger-than-life persona will be exceptionally missed by these loved ones.

As we hold tightly to the laughter, wisdom, and kindness that Kent Michael Smith gifted to us, we celebrate his life—a life well-lived, filled with joy, family, and laughter that will echo through the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy will endure in the stories recounted, the memories cherished, and the lives he touched so profoundly.