Larry Dale Smith

Larry Dale Smith, (82), of Rockford, Illinois passed away suddenly in his home on September 20th, 2023. Larry was born on August 1st, 1941 in Florence, Alabama. He lived in Rockford the majority of his life and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends doing what he loved most, fishing and watching the Bears. Larry retired from Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) after 30 years of service as a bus driver and union secretary treasurer. Post retirement, Larry managed an apartment complex on the city’s northwest side for 20 years to present date.

Larry is survived by his 6 children, Mary (Dean) Stoner, Patricia (Chris) Capovilla, Tami Jackson, Larry (Donna) Smith, Deborah Gates, and William “Billy” Smith (Nadya Abykova). He is also survived by his twin brother Don Smith, and his nephew Johnny Smith both of Colorado Springs, Colorado, 15 grandchildren, Nicole (John) Washington, Holly Stoner, Heather Stoner (Zach DeCarlo), Deana Stoner (Courtney),Charles (Sana) Misuraca, Anthony Misuraca, Jenna Misuraca (Sean Destro), Robert Shatsar, Katlyn Jacobson, Matthew Smith, Jacob Smith, Ryan Smith, Jordan Gates, Tyler (Sarah) Gates, Hunter (Malik) Luster and 9 great-grandchildren. Predeceased by parents Helen and Bill Kendall, former wife and mother of their children, Barbara Ellen Kent (Puckett), grandson Stephen Michale Smith (Larry and Donna), cousin Wayne Hill, and sister-in-law Reva (Don) Smith.

Larry will be remembered for his sense of humor and how fun he was…always the life of the “party” armed with a new joke to share, and never forgetting a punch line! He had many interests including playing poker and cards, detailing his Chevy truck, showcasing his fancy handwriting and ability to create things freehand, and showing or gifting people his next “this might be worth something” find amongst his perpetually growing collection of stuff. Without a doubt, though, his favorite lifelong passion was fishing (except, of course, during Bears games) In many people’s eyes, an expert in the field always in pursuit of the next biggest catfish or smallmouth. He patiently tried to teach all that he knew, and truly reveled in watching others excitedly catch a fish while taking them out on his boat. Larry was equally passionate about watching his Bears and White Sox (and the Cubs lose) and was the true epitome of a dedicated Bears fan, having never missed a game on TV in over 50 years! His positive disposition was infectious. He absolutely enjoyed staying busy and was often on the go, perhaps fixing or building something, or just stopping for a chat and telling a story, and he was quick to lend a hand if needed. He was charismatic, dependable, talented, kind, & friendly…and will be greatly missed by many!

Larry’s wishes were to be cremated and an informal visitation and celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 29th from 4:30-6:30pm at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108. Please come as you are as we gather and share our favorite memories and stories of Larry, Dad, and Grandpa.