Lane Smith

Lane Drew Smith, 80, of Firth, Idaho, peacefully passed away on March 11, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born on July 24, 1945, in Pocatello, Idaho, to Tom and LaRue Smith, Lane was the second of four sons. He grew up in Marsh Valley alongside his brothers Kirk, Craig, and Evan, working on the family farm where he developed a deep appreciation for hard work, sports, and the outdoors. After graduating from Marsh Valley High School, he attended Utah State University, where he met May, the love of his life. They both earned degrees in education and married on August 10, 1967.

Lane spent his career as a beloved teacher and coach in the Firth schools, positively influencing thousands of students. He also worked laying carpet throughout eastern Idaho well into his seventies. An avid outdoorsman, he cherished family trips to the ocean, mountains, lakes, and rivers. He found joy in reading, leatherworking, puzzles, and building models, and he took great pride in the beautiful yard he and May created and tended together. Known for his generosity, humor, and patience—especially in a home filled with daughters—Lane loved playing the harmonica, telling stories, and reciting poems around the campfire, bringing laughter and warmth to everyone around him.

He is survived by his wife May and their four daughters, Jennifer, Lisa, Stacie, and Carrie, as well as nine grandchildren—Sydney, Sterling, Aria, Kacie, Kobe, Ethan, Kaleb, Amelia, and Elaine—and two great-grandchildren. His family was the light of his life, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.