Wayne Smith

PRINCETON — Wayne R. Smith, 81, of Princeton died Wednesday, May 1, 2019, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Wayne Russel Smith was born in Thomas, Ill., in June 1937 to Gladys and Tom Smith.

He attended Sheffield High School and served in the National Guard. After high school, he served in the Air Force and trained in air traffic control. In 1966, Wayne married Gwenda Miller and they resided in Mineral while raising their two children, Scott and Terri. He enjoyed family vacations to Yellowstone, Disneyland and Hawaii. Wayne retired from LTV Steel after 30 years.

Wayne was an extremely disciplined jogger, running six miles a day in all types of weather on the various roads surrounding Mineral. After moving to Princeton, he became a dedicated indoor exerciser at the Bureau County Metro Center. He was an avid reader and a talented crossword puzzle solver. Those who knew Wayne will remember his kindness, sense of humor, generosity, friendship and strength of character. Throughout his life, he cared for and supported family and friends with terminal illnesses. His empathy for others was immense.

He is survived by his brother, Wendell Smith; his son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Brenda Smith; his daughter and son-in-law, Terri and Keith Taylor; his grandchildren, Shannon and Rylie Smith; his very dear friend, Donna Monier; and numerous nieces and nephews.

It was Wayne’s wishes to forgo a funeral and wake, and his ashes will be laid to rest by his family.

Wayne really valued the Princeton Library and other charities. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Princeton Public Library or another charity.

The Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Princeton is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.grant-johnsonfh.com.