Theodore “Ted” Smith, 71, of Blackwater, MO., passed away Friday June 21, 2024, at University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, MO., surrounded by his family.
Visitation for Ted will be 5:00 to 7:00p.m. Tuesday, June 25 at Howard Funeral Home with a recitation of the rosary starting at 4:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday June 26, at S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Church with Fr. Mark Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the Old Lamine Cemetery in Blackwater.
Theodore Gene Smith was born November 19, 1952, In Sedalia, MO., the son of Eddie Lee Smith, Jr. and Mary Elizabeth Klenklen Smith. He married Martha Rustemeyer on September 27, 1980, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Salisbury, MO. As a young man, Ted pursued auctioneering school in Kansas City, MO. He enjoyed auctioneering and volunteered this talent often in his later years. Ted was a skilled farmer, hunter, and fisherman. He enjoyed woodworking, collecting antiques and gardening.
Ted was employed at The University of Missouri in Columbia, MO, he retired in 2002. Ted was a jack of all trades; he never knew a stranger. He was passionate about volunteering his time and talents. Ted was a member of Knights of Columbus and served as Grand Knight, taught RCIA, and was active in the S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic church in Boonville, MO. He was a member of the local Republican Committee. Ted was well-known for his love of local history and Native American history and artifacts.
Ted is preceded in death by his parents, Eddie Lee, Jr. and Mary Elizabeth, son, Brian, mother, and father-in-law, three bother-in-law’s, sister-in-law, and one niece. He is survived by his wife, Martha of the home, Daughter, Amy Blankenship of Sedalia, MO., Twin brother, Eddie (Patty) Smith of Blackwater, MO. and grandchildren, Hannah, and Alison Blankenship, and his beloved companion, Bo. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family. Online condolences may be left at Howard Funeral Home.