Thomas Joseph Smith of St. Charles, Michigan

Beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. He was 91 years old. Thomas was born on June 15, 1934, in St. Charles, Michigan, to the late John Young and Mary F. (McCormick) Smith. On October 20, 1952, Thomas proudly enlisted in the United States Army National Guard, serving multiple times, and receiving an honorable discharge on December 29, 1960. While attending a dance at the Golden Glow, he met the love of his life, Gwendolyn Kay Near. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on June 25, 1955; she preceded him in death on February 17, 2005. Thomas was employed with AT Ferrell as a Grain Mill Builder, retiring with over 25 years of loyal and dedicated service. The role of his lifetime, one he treasured and cherished above all others, was to be a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. An avid outdoorsman, Thomas enjoyed hunting, fishing, creating walking sticks and wood-carved figurines with his pocketknife. He also enjoyed taking trips to the casino and spending time with his family, especially with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Thomas will forever be remembered for his kind and caring heart, for selflessly helping those he loved, and always giving wise advice.

Surviving are four children: Thomas (Denise) Smith of St. Charles; Timothy (Susan) Smith of Hemlock; Tamara (James) Smith of Interlochen; Todd (Gail) Smith of Canon City, CO; 14 grandchildren: James W. (Brandi) Ardine, Todd (Chelsea) Smith, Katie (Jeremy) McCluskey, Brett (Andrea) Smith, Sarah (Joshua) Smith, Mallery Smith, Aaron Hawk, Chad (Laura) Smith, Samuel Baldauf, Molly (Josh) Baldauf, Timothy (Robin) Smith, Thomas (Alexandra) Smith, Sylvia (Aaron) Sanders, and Naomi Smith; 20 great-grandchildren; and a brother-in-law, William (Ann) Johnson of Saginaw. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Smith; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Otto and Gladys Johnson; a grandson, Kyle Coman; three brothers and a sister: James (Alice) Smith, Edward (Shirley) Smith, Johnny Smith, Mary Jean (Joseph) Goidosik; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, James (Gail) Near, Ardith (Ron) Lynch, Eleanor Near.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of MyMichigan – Saginaw 7th Floor and Wellspring Rehabilitation Center for all the love and care they provided to Thomas and his family.

Honoring Thomas’ wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to plant a fruit tree in their own yard so future generations can enjoy the harvest. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.casefuneralhome.com.