Gene Smith

Gene A. Smith, 72, of Danville, died at 6:55 p.m. on Sunday, December 10, 2006, at Provena U.S.M.C. in Danville. Gene was born January 12, 1934, in Danville, the son of John and Bertha (Ringstron) Smith. He married Donna Jean Brandt on August 31, 1957 in Danville. She preceded him in death on March 23, 2000. Gene is survived by his devoted caregivers, his two sons, Steven P. (Monica Browning) Smith and Alex R. Smith both of Danville; three granddaughters, Holley and Barbie Quick and Britney Smith; step-granddaughter, Monica Foy; two great-granddaughters, Chloe and Corinn McPherson; two sisters, Audrey Ross and Carol Johnson both of Danville and a special mother-in-law, Evelyn Snapp of Ridge Farm. His parents, one son, Rusty, one sister, Mary Davis and his father-in-law, William Leo Snapp, preceded him in death. Gene had dedicated 27 years of employment at Hyster, retiring in June 1990. He served his country proudly during the Korea Era Conflict in the U.S. Marines and was a member of the War Dads. Gene collected coins and enjoyed playing cards, particularly euchre and pinochle. He also liked to go bowling and golfing in his spare time. Gene was an avid Bears, Cubs, and Illini fan. He was a generous man, willing to help anyone in need. Gene loved children, including all of the kids in his neighborhood, but most of all his grandchildren. A celebration of Genes life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 15, 2006 at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center with Pastors Scott McCurdy and Curtis Darling officiating. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, December 14, 2006 at the funeral home. Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery. E-mail condolences may be sent to