On Nov. 23rd, 2020, Stephen “Steve” Kenneth Smith, of Davie, age 67 passed away from heart failure at Memorial Regional Hospital. Stephen was born on Dec. 30th, 1952, in Rome, GA to Mary Mozelle Kelly Smith (of Macon, GA) and Earle Carlton Smith (of Waycross, GA). Stephen and his brother Patrick Smith grew up in multiple places due to their father’s career as a professor of chemistry. From Georgia they moved to Urbana, IL where Earle received his masters, to then Earle’s first job, at The Citadel in Charleston, SC then on to a post at Columbus College, GA. Steve graduated from Hardaway High School in 1970 and he later on attended Columbus College for 2 years. During his time in Columbus, GA Steve worked as a technician in a hospital during his pursuit to attain a Nursing degree and from the experience he determined nursing was not for him.

Later on Steve moved to South Florida to be near his father. He met Merlita Labanero Tumbagahan and they married in 1994. Their daughter, Lila, was born in 1996 . Steve worked for over 30 years as a Propane Truck Driver for Amerigas. He retired in 2014.

Stephen was a philosopher and a religious man. He belonged to several churches over the years and supported many missionaries. He was very generous and lived a life of service, helping indigent and homeless people. He was a loving father and husband. His soft-spoken ways made him a friend to many people over his lifetime. Steve was an avid tennis player, enjoyed fishing, and going on nature walks. He loved music, musicians, and gatherings of friends and family in his home. He was a prolific reader. He made his daughter’s friends welcome and brought people together, always thinking of the comfort of others. He had the gift of seeing other people’s gifts. His generosity of spirit gave him the freedom to appreciate and enjoy life.

Steve is predeceased by his brother, Patrick Smith, his parents, Uncle Kenneth
Smith, Aunt Louise King, Uncle Fred Kelly, Uncle Ben Kelly, and Aunt Joan Burch.

Steve is survived by his wife of 26 years Merlita Smith, daughter Lila Smith (Oscar Holguin), sister-in-law Susan Smith, Uncle Stephen Kelly (Nancy), Uncle Hershel Burch, and many cousins.

Cremation was private. Relatives & friends will be invited to an online memorial service.

Arrangements entrusted to: Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care, University Drive Chapel.