The City of Gassville is mourning the passing of a long time public servant, council member, quorum court member and public safety advocate.
79-year-old Kenneth Smith passed last Thursday at Baxter Health. Originally born in Livingston, Tennessee, Smith was a graduate of Yellville Summit in 1966.
As a member of the Baxter County Quorum Court from 1993 to 2003 Smith was instrumental in the original forming of the 911 Advisory Board. Serving many years as a member and chief of the Gassville Volunteer Fire Department he worked with his brother, former Gassville Mayor Danny Smith, to bring equipment upgrades and improved response to the citizens he served.
Smith was currently serving in his 5th year as council member for the City of Gassville for Ward 1 Position 2. As a member of the city public safety committee he leaves a legacy of working to improve public safety.
Gassville Mayor Jeff Braim tells KTLO News that the loss of Smith is felt across the whole community and beyond.
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At the next city council meeting on September 16, Mayor Braim will declare a vacancy of Smith’s position to be filled at a future date.
A visitation will be held Thursday at 10 in the morning at Gassville Baptist Church with a graveside service to follow at 11 at the Gassville Cemetery.
The Gassville City Hall will be closed from 10 until noon in observence of the service.
Kenneth Smith is survived by his wife, Penne; daughter, Shelly (Donald) Cranor; son, Brian (Kristy) Smith; six grandchildren, Lawrence Cranor, Stephanie Smith, Wyatt Smith, Riley Smith, Keegan Clayborn and Kinley Clayborn; brothers, Danny (Peggy) Smith and Tom (Paula) Smith; brother and sister-in laws, Mike (Marge) Fouts, Randy Fouts, Steven (Karen) Fouts and Peggy (Dave) Almond; along with several nieces and nephews.
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