Dean "Deano" Rex Smith

Dean “Deano” Rex Smith, 58, of Muncie, passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at I.U. Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis. He was born in Muncie, Indiana on November 3, 1966, to Earl Phillips and Billie (Beckett) Moles; he was later adopted by Jeffrey Smith.

Deano grew up in Selma, Indiana and graduated from Wapahani High School. He went on to attend school to receive his certification for welding and plasma. He worked for Kairos Specialty Metals as a welder for 14 years. Growing up, Deano was inseparable with his cousin, Gary J., who was more like his brother. He loved motorcycles and was a hardcore Harley guy. Deano loved history and watching westerns, as well as collecting guns and knives. He would often tell stories about his family and was known to embellish them quite a bit. Deano had a huge heart for people and loved them like they deserved; if he was ever needed, he was there. His love for people was always growing, as he helped to raise his girlfriend’s three children, as his own.

Deano is survived by his biological father, Earl (Wanda) Phillips; half-siblings, Gene Hale, Kaycee Barnabi, and Josh Phillips; step-siblings, Jamie Roberts and Chad Goddard; cousins, Deleena McCoy and Dale (Becky) Buffin; nieces and nephews, Tricia Linton, Toshia Wilson, Tonnee Wilson, Olivia Buffin, and Blaine Buffin; the children that he raised, Taborlee Baxter (her daughters, Lillianna Stewart and Presley Bowser), Rodney Hatfield, and Nick Hatfield; as well as several other friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jeffrey Smith and Billie Moles; girlfriend, Vicky Baxter; and cousin, Gary J. Buffin.

Deano’s family would like to give a special thank you to Kairos Specialty Metals, as they have been a great place of employment for Deano and a comfort to his family, at this time.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home, 4600 W. Kilgore Ave., Muncie, IN 47304, with Reverend Dennis Rush officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 4 pm until 6 pm on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the funeral home. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.elmridgefuneralhome.com.