Wright - Russell Lee Smith, 80, died May 27, 2024 at his home in Wright.  He was born on July 12, 1943 at Iowa Falls, Iowa the son of Samuel and Helen (Adams) Smith.

He married Mary Slattery on July 27, 1963 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dodge City, she survives. Russ served as the Fire Chief for the Wright, Kansas Volunteer Fire Department for several years before becoming a fire fighter with Ford County Fire and EMS Department. Mr. Smith later became the Chief of the Ford County Fire and EMS service from 2003-2009 before retiring. He enjoyed collecting cars and restoring them in his spare time. Russ also enjoyed working on his computer as well.

He was a member of the Kansas State Fire Fighters Association for 20 years, and served as the Southwest Kansas Trustee. Mr. Smith also taught Fire Science classes at various colleges and at the University of Kansas.

He is survived by his wife Mary of the home; daughter Susan and husband Ayotunde Ojuko of Florence, Alabama; son Shane Smith and wife Cindi of Wright; daughter Shawna Topor and husband Marty of Eagle, Colorado. He is also survived by his grandchildren Trenton Haas, Treven Haas, Kory Haas, Sophie Topor, Jake Topor, Jillian Gillion, Kirsten Click, Shawna Lafoe, Chasity Dougherty, Heather Dougherty; Ashley Martinez, Trey Weve, Katlyn Weve, Beau Dougherty, Johnathon Gillion and his great grandchildren Owen Click, Taylor Click and Austin Click.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, brother Kenneth Smith and daughter-in-law Debbie Smith.

Memorial service will be held at St. Andrews Catholic Church on Saturday June 8, 2024 at 10:30 AM with Rev. Ted Stoecklein presiding. Inurnment will follow at St. Andrew's Cemetery in Wright. There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place. Memorials are suggested to St. Andrew's Cemetery Fund in care of the funeral home.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.