Russell William Smith, age 63, a resident of Venice, FL, formerly of Jefferson, OH, entered into eternal rest on February 3, 2022, after fighting a courageous battle with a relentless illness. Predeceased by parents, Della Mae and William (Bill) Smith, and brother, Gerald (Gerry) Smith. Beloved husband of Elaine Marie Smith (Toth) of Venice FL (formerly of Parma Heights, OH); devoted father of Lauren (Paul) Barron of Canton, GA, and Brent (Gina) Smith of Hiram, OH; cherished step-father of Kristen (Matt) Fox of Marietta, GA; Derek (Hallie) Phelps of Myakka City, FL; Kyle Toth (Sarah) of Grand Marais, MN; Lenora Toth (Terry) of Sarasota, FL; loving grandfather of Hazel and Chloe Barron; Declan, Atlas, and Josephine Smith; loving step-grandfather of seven; dear brother of Ken (Liz) Smith of Canfield, OH and Susan (Keith) Reeder of Ashtabula, OH, and brother-in-law of Therese (Toth) and Don Sestito of North Port, FL; cherished uncle, cousin, and friend of many; leader of the pack to the “Tasmanian devil” aka Jack Russell, Lyllie.
Russ spent his formative years growing up on the family farm in Jefferson, OH. He told many stories of what life on a dairy farm was like. He continued to make hay on that farm, even after he moved to Florida. Russ’s childhood forged him into the hard-working man whom everyone respected and admired. His work ethic remained with him throughout his life-long career as a Tradesman. He built houses from the ground up, utilizing his many talents. His skills at perfecting finishing carpentry were sought out by many. He enjoyed teaching his children the “tricks of the trade” and they loved soaking up that knowledge. He could fix or repair just about anything. Russ loved to perfect recipes then share the delicious meals with family and friends. His wife, Elaine, greatly appreciated his love for cooking. She enjoyed making the desserts to complement his culinary delights. She owes her pie baking talent to her mother-in-law, Della, who taught her years ago how to make the best pie crust. He loved the pies Elaine made–especially red raspberry a la mode. But what he really looked forward to was the rhubarb pie his sister, Susan, would make every summer when he returned to Ohio. What he loved most in life was spending time with his family. He loved making memories with his children and grandchildren. He loved to travel and found joy in the simple things in life. Russ and Elaine enjoyed taking walks along the shore, especially at sunset.
Russ was one of the most helpful and kind-hearted men. He respected and helped people from all walks of life, as long as they were willing to learn and work hard and not just “fiddlef*#*” around all day. He will be greatly missed by many, and will always be remembered fondly.
A Celebration of Life will be held on April 3, 2022, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in Venice, FL, details are below. A memorial will be held in Ohio this summer as well. Details to be announced at a later date.
Celebration of Life:
Date: Sunday, April 3, 2022
Place: Service Club Park
1190 Harbor Drive S.
Venice, FL 34285
(Pavilions 3 and 4)
Time: 4 – 7 PM
