Russell Wayne Smith, age 69, of rural Phillipsburg, Kansas, passed away at Hays Medical Center, Hays, Kansas. He was born on October 28, 1955, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, the fourth child of Wayne L. Smith and Luella B. (Russell) Smith.

Russell grew up on the family farm northwest of Phillipsburg and began his education at the Iowa Union rural school before attending Phillipsburg Grade School and ultimately graduating from Phillipsburg High School. From a young age, he spent time helping his grandparents and developed a strong connection to the outdoors. He was known for his fascination with magnifying glasses—often using them to burn designs and dates into logs and tool handles, a simple joy that reflected his creative spirit.

Over the years, Russell held various jobs, including working at the Phillipsburg and Alma sale barns and doing roofing with Shelton Construction. He later spent many years employed at TAMKO Building Products, where he worked in the felt mill and formed lasting friendships.

Russell married Bonita (McCormick), and together they raised their children, Ryan W. Smith and Ashley A. Smith, as well as stepchildren Ray Hunter and Korina (Hunter) Wick and later divorced. As a father and grandfather, Russell found true happiness in spending time with his grandchildren, Dalton and Jayden, and was always willing to lend a helping hand to others. He will be fondly remembered for his warm smile, kind heart, and his ability to always enjoy being on the farm.

He is survived by his son Ryan (Mindy) W. Smith of Agra, Kansas; son Ashley A. Smith of rural Phillipsburg; and sisters Marlene Peters of rural Phillipsburg, Jeannie Gantz of Beloit, Kansas, Mary (Jim) Lasiter of Blairsburg, Iowa, and Linda Schurz of Phillipsburg, and many grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Luella Smith; his brother, James Smith; brothers-in-law Forrest Peters, Lawrence Moore, and Walter Schurz; and nephew Robert Peters and Josh Smith.

A memorial service for Russell will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, with Pastor Jay Brandon officiating.

Friends may sign the book on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel in Phillipsburg, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Russell's grandchildren's education.

Russell's life was a quiet testament to generosity, family, and finding joy in everyday moments. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.