Rodney Leland Smith

Rodney Leland Smith, age 82, of Jackson, passed away on Sunday, May 10, 2026. He was born on March 15, 1944 in Jackson, Ohio to the late Russel and Zona Smith. Rodney lived a life devoted to service, community, and helping others. A lifelong supporter of Jackson County and its people, he dedicated countless hours to civic involvement and public service. He was employed 47 faithful years at Stockmeister's, he was a Chairman of the Jackson County Democratic Party, was a past President of the Board of Elections, and was a longtime member of the City of Jackson Planning Commission. Rodney worked tirelessly to make Jackson County a better place for generations to come. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and enjoyed fellowship through the Huntington Beagle Club and the Coin Club. Rodney was especially proud to be a founding member of both the Jackson Beagle Club and the Jackson County Sportsman Committee. Rodney had a passion for politics and history and was honored to attend both the presidential inaugurations of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. He faithfully cheered for the Cincinnati Bengals, the Cincinnati Reds, and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Above all else, Rodney will be remembered for his generous heart and willingness to help others. Through his numerous rental properties, he provided affordable homes to many people in need. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand, often giving rides to those who needed transportation to work or assistance during difficult times. Rodney believed strongly in taking care of others and quietly made a difference in countless lives throughout the community. His legacy of compassion and service will continue to live on in the community he loved so dearly. He is survived by his children, Randey L. (Kimberley) Smith, Shannan S. Orender, and Andrea L. Davis (Ronald Duncan); his grandchildren, Tara Fenwick, Nick Smith, Jaimi Orender (Bradley Wills), Devin Orender (Mariah Stacey), Adrianna (Cain) Wolford, and Audrey (Blake) Tribby; great grandchildren, Levi, Bradley, Audrey, Lydia, Piper and Anakin. He is also survived by his siblings, Brenda Joyce Richards, Bernadine Conkle, Sidney (Linda) Smith, Beverley Griffiths, Rick (Jan) Smith; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Rodney was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela Louise Hammond Smith, son-in-law, Johnny Orender Jr.; his siblings and in-laws, Bodine (Gary) Rader, Berneta “Minnie” (Raymond “Shorty” Fout, Richard (Brenda) Smith, Fred Richards, Larry Conkle, and Danny Griffiths. Funeral services will be held at 2pm on Friday, May 15, 2026 at the Mayhew-Brown Funeral Home with Deacon Emeritus Janie Karl officiating and burial in the Fairmount Cemetery to follow. The family will receive friends 3 hours prior to the service from 11-2pm at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mayhew-brownfuneralhome.com. The family would like to thank the National Church Residences Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made out to the Jackson County Dog Pound at 25 E South St, Jackon, OH 45640 or the Jackson County Homelessness Committee at app.autobooks.co/pay/jackson-county-homelessness-committee or paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=BQBB5VCU4UCV8

Rodney Leland Smith

March 15, 1944 - May 10, 2026