Larry James Smith

Larry James Smith, 64, from Pekin, Illinois, passed away at his home in St. Petersburg, Florida, on May 04, 2025.

He was born in Pekin, Illinois, on August 29, 1960, to Warren Paul and Frances (Maneno) Smith.

He is survived by his daughter Caitlin (Jonathon) Clark, sister Sherri Nichols, twin brother Terry (Jacquelyn) Smith, and nephew Derek (Amy) Nichols. He is also survived by great-nieces Drew and Ivey, a great-nephew Hunter, many cousins, and Matthew (Amber) Knott, whom he loved like a son.

He was preceded in death by both his parents.

He graduated from Pekin Community High School in 1978. He then worked as a galvanizer at Keystone Steel and Wire, retiring in 2013 after 34 years of service. He loved the ocean and made St. Petersburg, Florida his home after retiring. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family and friends. When Larry was around, there was never a dull moment; he was the party. He was also a St. Louis Cardinal fan and never missed the chance to watch them play. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him.

In keeping with Larry’s wishes, he will be cremated, and there will be no services. Cremation is being handled by Taylor Family Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Pinellas Park, Florida.

Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Midwest Affiliate https://www.stjude.org/give.html or TAPS https://www.taps.org/donate.