Larry Gene Smith, 79, died Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, at The Shepherd's Center in Cimarron.
He was born Nov. 3, 1946 to Archie and Edna Smith.
He dedicated a significant part of his life to farming in the Montezuma area.
He enjoyed hunting, shooting guns, fishing, snowmobiling, riding motorcycles, and many other activities that allowed him to connect with nature.
He was always “quick on the draw” with funny stories and comebacks with family and friends that made everyone laugh and enjoy his presence.
He was very musically talented, playing guitar and steel guitar. He would gather with family and friends for jam sessions at Kim Unruh’s shed, a close cousin, from time to time.
He moved to Garden City upon retiring, where he relished the company of his companion, Joyce Miller.
Survivors include nephew, Bryce Dirks, and wife, Stacy, Montezuma; niece, Kandis Crawford and husband, Patrick, Lindsborg; stepchildren: Jerry (Bugs) Miller, Kevin Miller, Teresa Miller, and Gary Miller; and many other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Sharlene (Dirks) Miller; and beloved companion, Joyce Miller.
• Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 at Morningside Cemetery in Montezuma.
Friends may call from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, 2025 at the Montezuma United Methodist Church at 100 N. Escalanta Street in Montezuma.
