July 9, 2025
Lawrenceburg, Indiana | Age 73

Eric L. Smith, 73, of Lawrenceburg, Ind., entered eternal life on Wednesday, July 9, 2025. A 1970 graduate of North Dearborn High School, Eric proudly served in the United States Army for 21 years, enlisting at the age of 17. Following a tour in Vietnam, he completed his distinguished military service as a Green Beret in the U.S. Army Special Forces, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class (E7). He was a proud member of Southeastern Indiana Vietnam Veterans of America Larry D. Fogle Chapter 71, The American Legion, and the Special Forces Association.

Following his military career, Eric worked with the B&O Railroad in Maintenance of Way and as a welder. Deeply passionate about local history, Eric served on the Dearborn County Historical Society Board, where he often gave tours to school groups and proudly shared his military collection. A former president of Antique Stove Association, he loved restoring and preserving antique stoves.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Judy (Roell) Smith; son, Jeremiah (Hailey) Smith; daughter, Maria (Andrew) Bressert; and was a proud grandfather and poppi to Mahlon and Leo Bressert, and Eleanora Smith. He is also survived by his brother, Eron (Yolanda) Smith, and four sisters, Christi Maples, Jennifer Smith, Sharon (Arthur) Rodriguez, and Shauna (Leanne Secrest) Smith. Eric was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd G. and Adele Smith, and his brother, Michael Smith.

Visitation was held on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Bright Christian Church, 204457 State Line Road, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025. A funeral service was at 12 p.m. Burial with Military Honors followed at Gibson Cemetery, 24001 State Line Road, Lawrenceburg, IN 47025. Contributions may be made to Green Beret Foundation, Southeastern Indiana Vietnam Veterans Larry D. Fogle Chapter 71, ALS Association, Lupus Foundation of America, Manchester EMS, or St Elizabeth Hospice Center in Edgewood, Ky. Visit us at www.fitchdenney.com.