Ronald L. Smith

Ronald LeRoy Smith of Fairbury, Nebraska, passed away peacefully at home on December 25, 2025, at the age of 78. He was surrounded by family in the days leading up to his passing.

Ron was born on July 7, 1947, in Deshler, Nebraska, to Doris Ziebig. He was raised in Fairbury and attended St. Michael’s Catholic School through eighth grade before graduating from Fairbury Jr.–Sr. High School in 1965. Ron was drafted into the United States Army and proudly served for two years in Berlin, Germany, where he worked as a medic.

In 1970, Ron married Carolyn Boston. Together they shared 55 years of marriage and were blessed with two sons, Shawn and Brian. Ron worked for 30 years at the Fairbury Farmers Co-op, where he was known for providing reliable and skilled mechanical service, until his retirement in 2017.

Ron was well known for his love of cars and Husker athletics. He spent many evenings with his family at racetracks, enjoying the hum of engines and the skill of the drivers. If there was a classic car show anywhere near Fairbury, Ron was sure to be there. He loved admiring restorations, explaining the differences between vehicles, and always pointing out his favorite muscle car—the 1955 Chevy 210 two-door post.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Carolyn Smith (Boston); his sons, Shawn Smith (Kim) and Brian Smith (Ariel); his grandchildren, Kaiden, Molly, Benjamin, Sammy, Henry, and Myles; his brother, Darrell Dragoo (Shellie); his sister, Peg Kuhlman (Francis); surviving in-laws; Charlie Boston and Teresa Smith and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Dragoo, and his brother, Dennis Smith.

A memorial service will be held on January 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Fairbury First Baptist Church. Memorials are requested to Homeless No More Cat Rescue of Fairbury and may be mailed to Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 15, Fairbury, Nebraska 68352.