Kenneth “KI” Irvin Smith, age 86, passed away peacefully at his home on July 6, 2026. He was born on September 7, 1939, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to Haywood Irvin Smith and Mildred Gilreath Smith.
Kenneth was a proud veteran who served his country with honor and dedication. Following in the footsteps of his father during his military service, Kenneth developed a lifelong passion for aviation and became a pilot, spending many enjoyable hours flying his beloved Cessna 172. He was also associated with the 82nd Airborne and carried a deep sense of patriotism and service throughout his life.
Kenneth had a love for adventure and the outdoors. He enjoyed traveling across the country, snow skiing, riding four-wheelers and snowmobiles, and hiking. Whether exploring new places or enjoying the beauty of nature, he embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. Kenneth never met a stranger and genuinely enjoyed talking with people. His friendly personality, warm smile, and gift for conversation allowed him to form lasting friendships wherever he went.
Above all else, Kenneth was a dedicated Christian whose faith guided his life. He was a faithful member of Central Church of Christ and found great comfort and purpose in serving the Lord, his church family, and those around him.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Kenneth treasured the time he spent with his family and leaves behind countless cherished memories.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sonjia Bowling Smith; his sons, David Kenneth Smith and Richard Alan Smith (Kim); and his grandson, Brandon Haywood Smith.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Haywood Irvin Smith and Mildred Gilreath Smith, and his first wife, Betty Davis Smith.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home with Barry Tucker and Phil Warnick officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Hospice of Limestone County in Kenneth’s memory.
Kenneth will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love of family, his adventurous spirit, his passion for aviation, and his ability to make a friend out of anyone he met. His legacy of kindness, service, and Christian devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
