Rufus B. Smith, passed away on March 20, 2026, at the Spring Creek Rehab in Murray, Kentucky. He was born on January 5, 1939, to the late John S. and Louise Jackson Smith.
Rufus retired as a Heating and Air Engineer at the Kentucky State Penitentiary. He took great pride in his work and retired after years of dedication to his profession.
Above all, Rufus was a family man. His sons survive him, Michael with his wife Kristie of Princeton, KY, and David Smith with his wife Gina also of Princeton, KY. He was a loving grandfather to Lacey and Ryleigh Smith and a great-grandfather to Nealie Vied. Rufus also leaves behind his brothers, Richard Smith of Parker, Colorado, and Johnny Smith of Princeton, and his sisters, Rose Carner of Caldwell County, KY, and Patricia Jenkins of Christian County, KY, along with several nieces and nephews who will also miss him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sonia S. Hackney Smith, his brothers, Charles, Sam, and Shellie Smith, and his sister Linda Brindley.
Rufus’s love for the outdoors was unmistakable. He could often be found working in his yard, taking pleasure in the simple joys of being outside.
Visitation will be from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday, March 23, 2026, at Morgan’s Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Morgan’s Funeral Home with Rev. Ronnie Sivells and Rev. Dean Ray officiating. Burial will follow in the Rowland Cemetery in Caldwell County.
