Homer Lee Smith

Homer went to be with the Lord on May 26th, 2025. He went peacefully in the comfort of
his home surrounded by those who love him. He dedicated his life to serving others and
his family. We are so thankful for heaven and God’s eternal promise.
Homer was born in Bush, Illinois on June 14, 1937 to Walter and Eva Smith and was
part of a large family including 4 sisters and 3 brothers. He often reflected on his time as
a young boy and loved his hometown. He was a man of integrity, honor and patriotism.
He joined the military immediately following high school graduation in 1955. A large
portion of his life was spent serving, whether it was serving his community on the police
force, his country in the Air Force or his family by providing protection and guidance.
Under all that toughness was a kindhearted man, who excelled at everything he put his
mind to.
Homer held several different roles throughout his 30-year tenure with the police force.
He was the Lieutenant of the metro drug force and served on the Vice Squad. He was a
wealth of knowledge when discussing anything related to history, the military or law
enforcement and took a keen interest discussing these topics and learning more about
them.
Homer earned the top marksmanship award during his time in the military and his
commitment to serve was significant. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed
hunting. His appearance could be intimidating, he was well above 6 feet tall, but Homer
had a big heart for those in need. He was always generous with everything he had and
lived a very selfless life.
You could often find Homer with one of his grandchildren on his lap. He dedicated
unique nicknames for all the grandkids, it is something that we as adults still enjoy,
recalling our given nicknames and laughing about it because only grandpa could come
up with those names. Homer had a soft place in his heart for children. Throughout his
life he supported and nurtured many into responsible adults and had a large impact on
his grandchildren.
After retiring from the police force, he continued to educate young people as an
instructor at Owens Community College. Those who aspired to pursue a career in law
enforcement enjoyed taking Homers classes and he was beloved by his students. He
had a passion for law enforcement, the role it plays in the community and the
importance of serving others.

Long after his retirement from the police force Homer continued to wear his Toledo
police hat. He would greet you as Lieutenant Smith and would say it with such pride. He
may have retired from the police force, but God found unique ways to use his
dedication, his willingness to serve and his ability to protect.
His wife Mert was the apple of his eye, and he adored her. On a sunny day you could
drive by their home on Main Street in Sylvania, Ohio and see them sitting on the porch
waving at traffic going by. We can smile and be at peace imagining the reunion he is
having with the love of his life. Thank you to all those who loved Homer, we are so
thankful and blessed to have been able to be a part of his life and his legacy. Please
join us in celebrating his life and his service to others.
Homer is survived by Daughters Beth (Michael) Ringle, Kelly (Daniel) Williamson and
sons Jimmy (Terri) Smith and James Zeigler; Brothers Joe (Sue) Smith, Richard (Nancy)
Smith sister Ruth (Tom) Kaucher. Grandchildren Kristin (Chris), Michael, Matt (Jess),
Lacey (Nolan), Nicole (Jeff), Erica (Richard), Courtney, Parker, Stacey (Matt),
Stephanie (Tony), James (Dana), Jennifer, Rachel and Rebecca (Peggyann) and many
great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife Mert and son Lee. Parents Walter and Eva Smith.
Brother Cecil. Sisters Lola, Sylvia and Lila.

The family would like to thank Elara Hospice for all their kindness and assistance to
Homer over the last several years and everyone who has supported or shared
encouraging words during this difficult time.

 Homer will be laid to rest at Ravine Cemetery in Sylvania, Ohio.