Elmer D. Smith Jr.

Elmer Daniel Smith Jr. passed away peacefully at home on May 2, 2023. Services will be Friday, May 12, 2023 at Second Baptist Church, 919 6th Ave in Rock Island, IL. Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am with a funeral following at 11:00 am. Interment with military honors will be at Rock Island National Cemetery, then repass to follow at Second Baptist Church.

Elmer was dearly loved by his wife Shirley, whom he was married to for 35 years, and by his family and many close friends. Elmer was born in Watonga, OK, the oldest child of Elmer Sr. and LaVaughn (Dalton) Smith.

Elmer served in the Korean War as a Sergeant in the United States Army from February 15, 1952 until being honorably discharged November 15, 1953.

He enjoyed working for 30 years at John Deere and Co. He was an avid race car fan and loved cars and motorcycles. He was a kind man who deeply loved his wives, his kids and step-kids, his grandkids, and his great-grandkids. He loved his church home of Second Baptist and supported it until the end of his life.

He is survived by his wife Shirley; daughter, Cheryl Smith; son, Elmer Smith III; five stepchildren; four grandkids; and two great-grandkids.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruthalene; his mother, LaVaughn; his father, Elmer Sr.; his sister, Alois; his brother, Vernon; and his daughter, Vicki. He leaves us rich in love and rich in memories.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island. To leave condolences for the family, visit www.wheelanpressly.com.

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