Leon H. Smith

Leon Smith, age 79, of Beach City, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Born on December 6, 1946, in Richwood, West Virginia, Leon was the son of the late Herbert and Gloria (Russell) Smith. He graduated in 1965 from Hiland High School. On November 5, 1966, he married Evelyn Longfellow, and together they shared nearly sixty years of marriage.

Leon was an incredibly devoted father and family man to his two daughters, Kathy and Laura. He once sold his guns to buy bicycles for his girls, and the family spent many summers camping, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Selfless and giving, he was a kind neighbor who spent many winters plowing snow and summers mowing lawns for those around town. A proud patriot, Leon served in the National Guard for six years and was present during the Kent State conflict on May 4, 1970. He was one of only eight guardsmen who participated in the federal trials that followed. He proudly served for 50 years with the Beach City American Legion.

Leon was a natural mechanic who loved old cars and engines, even building a Jeep from the frame up. His mechanical skills led him to own and operate his own trucking company. While driving trucks, he also served as a Beach City police officer for ten years. He later retired from Fenton Brother’s Electric after twenty years of service.

In addition to his wife Evelyn and daughters Kathy (Donnie) and Laura, Leon is survived by his sister Linda (Dwain), brother Jeff (Tammy), aunt Pat, and numerous cousins. His granddaughter Amanda and beloved dog JoJo preceded him in death.