Kent Smith, 65, of Defiance, OH passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026 after a prolonged battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Kent was born on November 15, 1960 to Orville and Julianne (Minck) Smith in Defiance, Ohio. He graduated from Tinora High School in 1979 and went on to become a talented CNC machinist and metalworker, retiring in 2020 from Roberts Manufacturing.

Kent greatly enjoyed working (and puttering) at the Smith family farm. He also loved punny jokes, crossword puzzles, collecting antiques and local history items, and relaxing with friends at the Defiance Eagles.

He will be missed by his significant other of 12 years, Jo Wagner of Continental, OH; daughter, Alyxandria (Matthew Dougherty) Smith of Madison, WI; mother, Julianne Smith of Defiance, OH; and sister, Elaine Smith of Hindsdale, IL. Kent was preceded in death by his father Orville Smith and his brother Orville Smith Jr.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In place of flowers, the family suggests donations to Auglaize Village in Defiance in memory of Kent’s passion for preserving local history. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com