Mr. Kenneth Morris Smith Sr.

Mr. Ken Smith was born September 21st, 1939, to his late parents Russell LaFayette Smith Sr. and Cora Lou Smith in Troup County, Georgia. He was preceded in death and surely greeted in Heaven by his wife of 63 years and the love of his life, Velna.

Mr. Smith committed a lifetime of service to Troup County. Along with running a construction business for over 40 years and forming Ken Smith Enterprises, he also served in the United States National Guard and as an officer with LaGrange Police Department. Once approaching retirement, Mr. Smith served twelve years as a Troup County Commissioner. During his extended tenure as commissioner, Mr. Smith played an impactful role in our community – a few of the most notable being many improvements and additions to Pyne Road Park, the construction of the Gray Hill Community Center, the Senior Center in West Point, a new animal shelter, a new District 4 Health Department facility, and the new Government Center in LaGrange. Among his many accomplishments, he was also a past chairman and charter member of Troup County Crimestoppers along with being on the board of directors of the Troup County Connection Authority. Eventually, Mr. Smith was appointed to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council by Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue.

Mr. Smith was a proud member of the Masonic fraternity, attaining the rank of Master Mason and 32° Scottish Rite Mason, along with being the former president of the LaGrange Shrine Club. He also was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of the Confederacy, and the local Elk Lodge.

Over the years, Mr. Smith’s favorite pastimes included raising cattle, owning and breeding Boston Terriers, metal detecting, and traveling with family. Anyone close to him could always expect to laugh at a silly prank or just simply enjoy his quick wit and sly sense of humor.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Rhonda (Bruce) Wilson and Rick (Sheri) Smith; 9 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; his brother Doug (LaGrada) Smith; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. Along with his parents he is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Velna; two brothers, Eddie Jim Smith and Russell Smith Jr.; eldest son Kenneth Smith Jr; and grandson Jacob.

The gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, August 8th 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am in the chapel of Striffler-Hamby Mortuary. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 am following the visitation. The family will attend a private service at Restlawn Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, Mr. Ken and the family would appreciate donations to be made to Wellstar Hospice of LaGrange.

All arrangements are made by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 884-8636.

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting www.shlagrange.com.