Larry Dean “LD” Smith, 65, of Martinton, and formerly of Watseka, passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at UI Health in Chicago, IL. He was born on August 4, 1960, in Watseka, the son of Larry Max and Virginia Lee (Badger) Smith.
He is survived by the love of his life, Sue Langellier of Martinton; his stepmother, Shirley Smith; one son, Dustin (Kaitley) Smith, and their children, Max and Ali Smith of Watseka; siblings, Mary Lee Stenstrom, Dorrine “Rene” (Marty) Gahan, Lori Lyons, David Smith, Mark Steele, Brian Steele, Mitch Steele, Lucinda (Mark) Herring, Tami O’Brien, and Tim O’Brien; Sue’s children, Heather (Todd) Miller, Tara (Justin) Russell, Cody (Dana) Langellier, and Dane Langellier; Sue’s grandchildren, David and Ty Miller, Brianne (Tyler) Rude, Penn, Claire, and Madden Russell, and Emmalyn and Denver Langellier; along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
LD was preceded in passing by both of his parents; a stepmother, Shirley Smith Howard; a special uncle, Terry Smith; and one grandson, Tripp Smith.
He worked at Geiger Truck Parts for over twenty-seven years. LD was a city council member in Watseka for many years, loved gardening, had a passion for classic cars and motorcycles, and always enjoyed helping others work on their vehicles as the lead mechanic at Smith Auto. He enjoyed coaching his son in Little League and loved being outdoors, especially at gatherings with friends and family.
A visitation will be held from 3:00–7:00 pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Baier Funeral Home in Watseka. Cremation rites will be handled by Baier Funeral Home after the visitation.
Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association.
Please share a memory of LD at baierfuneralhome.com.
