Stanley E. Smith

Stanley Eugene Smith was born in Ainsworth, NE on July 27, 1936, to Earl and Lois (Barrington) Smith. Stan passed away on December 19, 2024, at the Brown County Hospital. He lived his childhood on the family ranch and worked for various neighbors. He graduated at the age of sixteen from Ainsworth High School. 

On March 18, 1957, Stan married Shirley Pickenpaugh and shortly after, they moved to Sunnyside, WA. In 1958, they returned to the family ranch and were blessed with their children, Gordon, Craig, Brenda (her twin sister), and Janet. 

Stan loved music and played in his band over the years, showcasing his talent by singing and playing numerous musical instruments. He was a hardworking man who dedicated his life to various jobs. Throughout the years they resided at different places including moving to Ainsworth in 1966 and also the family ranch south of town. When living in Ainsworth Stan managed dairy cows, ranched, worked at the Ainsworth and Bassett Livestock Markets and did tree removal. In 1984, they moved to the ranch until Shirley’s passing. He was an avid gardener, took pride in his lawn, loved rough stock rodeos and enjoyed watching old westerns. He loved his family and was happiest when surrounded by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

He was the last of his family and was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Aubrey, Lee and Dean; sisters Fern Ferris and Marjorie McDermott; son Gordon; infant daughter; and daughter-in-law Tammy Smith. 

He is survived by his son Craig (Mary) Smith of Ainsworth; daughters Brenda Smith of Ainsworth and Janet (Kevin) Soule of Harrisburg, NE; seven grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Marie Smith of Elgin, NE; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other family members. 

  Funeral Service was held on Friday, December 27, 2024 at the Hoch Funeral Home in Ainsworth with Pastor Gary Graesser officiating at the service. Music was provided by Linn Baxter. Special music was sung by Mike Baxter of “The Old Rugged Cross” and “Go Rest High On That Mountain.” The CD Selection “A Cowboy’s Prayer, Promise Land” by Casey Donahew was played. Special remarks were given by Amanda Bunch and Cody Smith. Active Casketbearers were: John Bunch, Cody Smith, Tristen Tarrell, Brenton Soule, Couy Hollenbeck, Quinten Dailey, Brad Kelly and Tyler Krager. Honorary Casketbearers were: All of Stan’s Other Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren. Memorials were suggested to the family for a future designation. Interment was in the Ainsworth Cemetery. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfunerahome.com.