Leroy Grant Smith Jr. was born April 7, 1957 in Saratoga Springs, New York, first born to Leroy Grant and Iona Mae (Hilliker) Smith.  His time in New York was short lived as his father was currently stationed there.  After his dad's discharge the family made their home in his dad's hometown of Manchester, Oklahoma where Leroy began school.  They moved to Anthony, Kansas and later to Wakita, Oklahoma where he continued school.  In high school he transferred from Wakita to Chaparral High School.

In 1986, Leroy moved to Jacksonville, Florida.  He was blessed with one son, Shawn Lee Grant Smith in 1992, who he adored and worked hard to raise as a single father.  He worked for Excel Industries for about 15 years, then as a machinist for several years before going to work for Werner Enterprises as a truck driver.

Leroy loved riding his Harley and especially enjoyed when Shawn was old enough to ride with him.  An avid outdoorsman, he liked fishing, hunting, and camping.  He was also very fond of his dogs, Zana and Roxie.

On October 20, 2023, after a battle with cancer, Leroy passed away at his home in Jacksonville, Florida at the age of 66.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Iona.

Leroy will be deeply missed by his son and daughter-in-law, Shawn and Rowena Smith and their daughter, Winry; his father, Leroy Smith Sr.; brother, Johnny Smith and wife, Rain; sister, Becky Hildinger and husband, Barry; nieces and nephew, Jamie, Jay, Erica, and Dusti; other relatives and many friends.

Graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at the Manchester Cemetery with Pastor Kent Olds officiating.  Friends may view and register from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday at Prairie Rose Funeral Home in Anthony.

Memorials in memory of Leroy Jr. may be made to the Manchester Cemetery and can be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Home, 602 E. Main St., Anthony, KS 67003.