Darryl Kent Smith, Sr., was born on August 19, 1961, in Chicago, Illinois. He was the fourth child of Ruben Sr. and Evelyn Smith.
Darryl Kent Smith, Sr., departed this life on Sunday, July 2, 2023, in Maywood, Illinois, where he resided.
Darryl Sr. received his diploma from Proviso East High School in Maywood, Illinois. After high school, Darryl was employed by Dominick’s Finer Foods and worked there for over 10 years. After leaving Dominick’s, Darryl Sr. began to work alongside his father at the family business – Smitty’s Auto Repair in Maywood, Illinois. He worked there until the business closed its doors, many, many years later. He was currently employed at BL Downey Company as a General Laborer.
Darryl Sr. was known throughout Maywood as “The Neighborhood Mechanic”. He was someone you could trust and depend on, especially when it came to your car. This was his passion; he loved what he did and he was good at it! Many residents of Maywood would call upon him day and night, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand.
Darryl Sr. was loved by many, and some of those that loved him affectionately called him “Daddy Darryl”. His face would light up with a big smile when he heard that greeting.
Darryl Sr. met the love of his life, Jeanette Wilson when he was 19 years old. They married on August 16, 1986, and from their union, two children were born: Darryl Kent Smith, Jr., and Denecia Smith. Jeanette was a devoted wife until his passing.
Throughout his life, Darryl possessed a quiet demeanor and often preferred to keep his thoughts and emotions to himself. He had a gentle spirit that allowed him to go with the flow. However, when he wanted or needed to get a point across he could and would!
Darryl’s memory will forever be cherished by his loving wife, Jeanette Smith; children, Darryl Kent Smith, Jr., Denecia Smith, and Charisma Smith; devoted parents, Ruben and Evelyn Smith; four siblings, Ruben Smith, Jr., Doris Smith, Daphne Smith, and Joyce (Walter) Williams; three grandchildren, Darryl Kent Smith III, Dareal Smith, and Daryann Smith; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Darryl Sr. was preceded in death by one grandson, Jacquez Marquise Thompson