Ryan “Smitty” Smith, 53, of Minerva, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Aultman Hospital following a short illness.

He was born April 5, 1973, in Salem to James Smith of Minerva and the late Renee (Forbes) Smith.

He was the operator of Buckeye Mechanical and Controls in Minerva. He coached and was involved in Minerva Youth Football for 30 years and recently retired as a captain from the Sandy Creek Joint Fire District, where he was a member for 26 years. Smitty gave a lifetime of service to his community through the fire department and beyond. He shaped the lives of countless children throughout the Minerva area. His contagious laugh brought joy to all those around him and always made each day a little brighter.

In addition to his father, he is survived by his wife, Heather (Wilson) Smith, whom he married Oct. 6, 2001; two daughters, Alyssa (Brendan) Bennett of Cortland and Rylan Smith and fiancé Jorden Baker of Minerva; a son, Ruger Smith of Minerva; a sister, Shelly (Rich) Ridzon of Carrollton; sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, Christy Hawk, Rauslin Mills, A.J. and Taylor Mills; nieces and nephews, Wyatt Ridzon, Lane and Logan Hawk and Tate Mills; and his mother-in-law, Jodi Mills.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 12, at 11 a.m. at Minerva Methodist Church with the Rev. Peggy Garner officiating.

Burial took place in East Lawn Cemetery.

Calling hours will be held Monday from 4 to 8 p.m. at Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva, where last alarm services will be held at 8 p.m.

Those wishing to send condolences may sign the online register at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.