Thomas L. Smith

A Legacy of Kindness, Family, and Community

Thomas L. Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born in Parkersburg, West Virginia to Robert E. Smith, who was employed by Florida Power and served as President of IBEW, and Barbara L. Wilcoxen, a registered nurse. He grew up in a busy household, surrounded by the hard work and compassion of his parents, values that would shape his character, heart and work ethic.

Tom relocated to the Apopka area as a teen, where he attended local schools and began to plant the roots that would flourish throughout his life.

Early in life, Tom married Jean Fuston, with whom he shared many joyful years and welcomed three children: Clayton, Amy, and Taylor. Together, they built a home filled with laughter and adventure, cherishing family vacations, camping trips, telling campfire stories (2 paw) and boating excursions that became treasured memories.

In 2016, Tom married Sue Monti Smith, his partner for the remainder of his life and the person he built a home filled with love, a strong relationship with Jesus, and a big beautifully blended family of seven children, expanding his heart to include Rhonda, Sandy, Lisa, and Lindsey. Tom was a devoted dad, stepdad, and beloved G'Pa.

Tom found great joy in the simple moments. He loved camping, boating, and watching his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids play sports. Family vacations were a highlight, as he cherished every opportunity to create lasting memories surrounded by loved ones.

Tom loved his church family – both Orange City United Methodist Church and First Church Deland. He loved his Kaiser work family and he loved his town, Deland.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, his siblings, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a large extended family who will continue to honor his memory. He leaves behind a legacy defined by love, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.

Tom’s life was a testament to his unwavering faith, the strength of family, kindness and the importance of community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

May his memory be a blessing and his spirit continue to inspire us all.

Tom is survived by his wife: Sue Monti Smith. His children and their spouses or partners represented in (): Clayton Smith (Julie Pangborn), Amy Sanchez (Diego Sanchez), Taylor Smith (Danielle Smith), Rhonda Monti (Adam Kisthardt), Sandy Smith (Mike Smith), Lisa Monti, and Lindsey Monti. His grandchildren: Izabelle Sanchez, Mackenzie Sanchez, Arianna Sanchez, Blakeley Smith, Liam Smith, Brayden Twilley (Jamie Twilley), Kenley Laughridge, Aiden Pierson, Connor Pierson, Ellie Smith, and Owen Smith. Great-grandchildren: Beckham Twilley, Hazen Twilley, and Bennett Twilley. His younger siblings: Margaret Bennett, Mike Smith, Doug Smith (Sue Ellen Smith), Jim Smith (Paulette Smith), Joe Smith (Janice Smith). Having left this world too soon – he is survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews – all of whom he cherished dearly.

The Celebration of Life will be held at First Church Deland, Sunday, January 25th at 2PM. All are welcome. Address: 115 E Howry Ave., Deland, FL 32724.