Shawn Michael Smith, 47, a long-time resident of Madera, died on December 11, 2020. His most recent occupation was as owner/operator of S. Smith Trucking. Shawn was born on October 24, 1973 in Philipsburg. His childhood was spent in Morgan Run and Weedsport, NY, where he played Little League, football, and baseball, where he shined, singing and dancing in his 8th grade starring role as Marcellus Washburn in the high school production of The Music Man, and where, singing his heart out, he fell down in a faint between the chairs after the last long note of his church’s Easter cantata.
Shawn graduated from Philipsburg High School in 1993. From a young age, following in his dad’s footsteps, he was an excellent hunter with both gun and bow and an avid fisherman. He was also an excellent cook who loved to offer his mom something delicious when she came to visit.
Shawn was a hard worker all his life, beginning with his first paper route as a kid. He did everything with exuberance and persistence. If one thing did not work out, he’d try another. He was saved at a young age and, despite many trials and tribulations along the way, his faith in Jesus to get him through never wavered.
The absolute love of his life was his daughter, Shelby Jo Smith, of Houtzdale, who survives him. Not attached to material possessions, Shawn would give the shirt off his back to someone in need. He had a heart of compassion toward others, which he demonstrated by loving and treating Shelby’s sister Madison Passmore as his own.
Also surviving Shawn are his father, Garey Smith, Sr. (Kitti) of Madera, mother Nancy Carey (Mike) of Clayton, NY, brother Garey Smith, Jr. (Lori) of Madera, brother Shane Smith of Asheville, NC, and his faithful sidekick Doober. He was predeceased by his older brother Lonnie Sousa of Lake Wales, FL, as well as his paternal grandparents Donald and Patricia Smith of Madera and maternal grandparents H. Richard and F. Ruth Nolan of NY.
A Graveside service will be held 2PM Tuesday at Alexander Cemetery, Madera. Pastor Robert Ford will officiate. Due to the ongoing pandemic, there will be no public viewing.
Condolences may be sent to www.kruise-spewock.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Kruise-Spewock Funeral & Cremation Services,Inc., Madera.