Ryan “Smitty” Smith

Age 53, of Minerva, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026 in Aultman Hospital following a short illness. He was born April 5, 1973 in Salem to James Smith of Minerva and the late Renee (Forbes) Smith. He is the operator of Buckeye Mechanical and Controls in Minerva. He operated and coached in the Minerva Youth Football for 30 years and just recently retired as a Captain from the Sandy Creek Joint Fire District where he was a member for 26 years. Smitty gave a lifetime of service to his community through the fire department and beyond. He shaped the lives of countless children throughout the Minerva area. His contagious laugh brought joy to all those around him and always made your day a little brighter.

In addition to his father, he is survived by his wife, Heather (Wilson) Smith whom he married Oct. 6, 2001, 2 daughters, Alyssa (Brendan) Bennett of Cortland, Rylan Smith and fiancé, Jorden Baker of Minerva, son, Ruger Smith of Minerva, sister, Shelly (Rich) Ridzon of Carrollton, sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Christy Hawk, Rauslin Mills, A.J. and Taylor Mills, nieces and nephews, Wyatt Ridzon, Lane and Logan Hawk, Tate Mills and mother-in-law, Jodi Mills.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Minerva Youth Football Program.

Funeral services will be Tuesday at 11:00 am in the Minerva Methodist Church with Rev. Peggy Garner officiating. Burial will be in East Lawn Cemetery. Calling hours will be Monday 4-8 pm in the Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva where last alarm services will be held at 8:00 pm. Those wishing to send condolences may sign the online register at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.