Ernest Z Smith

Ernest Z. Smith, 83, passed away on August 8, 2023, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

Ernest was born on December 27, 1939, in Campton, Kentucky to Nickadimus and Nancy (Beverly) Smith. He married Dollie (Donaldson) Smith who survives in Lima.

Ernest worked at Wapak Products in Botkins. He loved spending time with his family and grandchildren and singing to them. He loved being a Pastor and never knew a stranger. He was in a Gospel band, Smith Gospel Singers. Ernest enjoyed traveling sightseeing and fishing. He especially loved visiting Amish Country.

Along with his wife, he is survived by his children, Tammy (James) Sockrider, Rebecca Boutwell, Judy (Thomas) Brickman, Rosalind (Martin) Edwards, and Amy Harmon; step-children, Leslie Chapa, and Paul Chapa; many grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his first wife, Jewell (Spradlin) Smith, a grandson Charles Hatcher III, fifteen brothers, and one sister.

The family will receive friends from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, August 11, 2023, at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Ohio.  A funeral will follow at 2 p.m. Pastor Neil Peterson will officiate. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements handled by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home.  Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.