Merlin "Ben" Smith

Merlin Walton “Ben” Smith, age 88, a resident of Scottsburg, Indiana, passed away on Monday, July 8, 2024, at Hampton Oaks Health and Rehab. He was born on September 8, 1935, in Lexington, Indiana to the late Lowry Smith Sr. and the late Mildred (Webber) Smith. He was a 1953 graduate of Lexington High School and a Christian by faith. He loved bird watching, rides in the country, mushroom hunting, drinking a beer and playing Euchre. His family was his world and there were numerous others that he loved as his own children and grandchildren. He was just a really good man and known as selfless, humble, kind, and loving. He never raised his voice, and never complained. At work he was known as “Gentle Ben”.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Wanda Jean (Kipp) Smith. Four brothers, Lowry Smith Jr, Dean Smith, Charlie Smith, and Bob Smith. Two sisters, Margaret Warren and Donna Cox.

He is survived by his two daughters, Susie Smith of Scottsburg, Indiana, and Sandy “Sam” Smith of Scottsburg, Indiana. One brother, Dale Smith and his wife Margie of Georgetown, Kentucky. Three sisters, Dorothy Horine and her significant other, Lee Campbell of Sellersburg, Indiana, Mary Gorman and her husband Tom of Columbus, Indiana, and Mildred Thomas of Scottsburg, Indiana. Four grandchildren, Thomas Smith, Chad Baxter and his wife Ariane, Abby Webber and her husband Lance, and Margaret Buchanan. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Bella.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 13, 2024, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Christensen-Hoagland Family Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 PM with Pastor Amos Mills officiating. He will be laid to rest at Little York Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the Humane Society or Little York Cemetery.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen and been entrusted with the arrangements.