Joseph R. Smith (Ronnie), of Everest Kansas passed away on April 29, 2024, surrounded by his children. At the age of 81, he peacefully departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter.

Ronnie was born to Joe and Ethel Smith on October 9, 1942, in Horton, Kansas. He graduated from Everest High School in 1960 and achieved his associate degree in business shortly after. He married Connie Lewallen in 1964 and had 6 beautiful children. In those early years, he went back to help his parents with farming and started a farm of his own.

Raised amongst the fields he tended with care, Ronnie dedicated his life to farming, teaching his children and grandchildren the values of hard work, staying humble, and being resourceful. He cherished being known as Pee-Paw by many of his grandchildren.

Recently divorced, he forged rich friendships and found an extended family with his second career at the Golden Eagle casino where he worked for nearly 30 years. Beyond the fields and his work at the casino, Ronnie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. His infectious laughter, warmth, and quick humor touched the hearts of all who knew him. Whether doing chores with his grandkids, fixing whatever needed to be fixed, or a quick trip to Vegas, he was always up for adventure and made the most of every moment of life.

He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Larry Smith in 1960, Richard Smith in 1963, his mother in 1996 and father in 2000.

He will truly be missed by his survivors who include his children; Rhonda (Rick) Cairo, Lisa (Frank) Jodoin, Amy (Jim) Yankovich, Sherry (Zach) Edwards, Jamiee (Gary) Miller, Nick (Carley) Smith, his 16 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and countless extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held at the Dishon-Maple-Chaney Funeral Home on Friday, May 3 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Dishon-Maple-Chaney Funeral Home on Saturday, May 4 at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Miller Cemetery