In Loving Memory of Wayne (Marty) Smith

Wayne (Marty) Smith, 81, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on August 21, 2026.

Wayne was born on April 7, 1945, in Savanna, Illinois, to Glen Smith and Georgia Ruth Pulfrey. He worked most of his life as a custodian until 2014, when he went to work at McDonald’s.

He married the love of his life, Sharon Newman, on April 12, 1969, at St. Thomas Aquinas in Freeport, Illinois.

He loved being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He attended many sporting events for his grandchildren and loved spending time with his family.

He was a 4th-degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus and was very proud of his faith and community. He also enjoyed researching genealogy and loved to joke that everyone was his cousin.

He loved making everyone laugh with his corny jokes. We like to imagine that he is already at the Pearly Gates, making St. Peter laugh with one of his famous jokes. His sense of humor and infectious smile will be deeply missed by everyone who knew and loved him

He loved being a greeter and usher at St. Thomas. He enjoyed spending time with his extended family, especially those who considered him one of their own, calling him Abuelo (Grandpa).

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Georgia Smith; his daughter, Kelly; and his grandchildren, Dorothy and Kody.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon; his children, Chris (Lisa), Georgia (Jason), and Matt (Star); his son-in-law, Mike; his brother, Larry; and his many grandchildren: Dakota, Jeneva, Mikey, Matt, Kyle, Kevin, Lane, Dani, Andrea, Maria, and Michael. His great-grandchildren include Cedric, Mila Natalie, Karma Volta, Alvin, and Deklin.

He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who loved him dearly. His smile, laughter, famous dad jokes, and loving heart will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

Rest peacefully, Marty (Wayne). You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten. And, as Marty (Wayne) always said, “Thank you.” We want to thank him for sharing his life with us. It was an honor to have him as our husband, brother, dad, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Thank you, Marty (Wayne), for the memories, the laughter, and the love you gave us. We will carry you in our hearts forever.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, on Friday August 28, 2026, at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1400 Kiwanis Drive, in Freeport, Illinois. Friends may call at the church at 10:00 AM until time of service. Luncheon to follow.