Thomas Alan Smith

Thomas Alan Smith, age 73, of South Whitley, IN, passed away at 10:33 am on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at his residence. Born on September 17, 1951, in Whitley County, he was the son of Albert L. and Lois E. (Walker) Smith.

Tom attended Columbia City Joint High School and graduated with the Class of 1970. He worked at Dana Weatherhead for over 20 years until his retirement.

Tom was a member of Coesse United Methodist Church. He enjoyed being on local rivers canoeing and camping with friends and family. Tom, in years past, was an avid seeker of Indian working stone or arrow heads in many farm fields in the area. If you had the time when stopping by, Tom would give you a narrative on what he had found and what the stone use or nature was, and also a review of his collection. Tom had an incredible collection of the history of his dad, Albert, uncles, Frank, and Claude's World War II time. Many stories and recalls could be heard about that era of time by Tom.

One of Tom's best attributes was his friendship. If he considered you a friend, you had all of him. He was a cut and dry man. There wasn't any grey area with Tom. He will be truly missed by those that were able to come to know him and be called a friend. Tom appreciated time with his special group of friends.

Survivors include his nieces and nephews, Jason Smith, Matthew (Joni) Smith, Angie Smith, Michelle Smith, all of Columbia City, and Amy (Trini) Broadnax of Fort Wayne; sister-in-law Suzie Smith of Columbia City.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Richard “Dick” Smith and Donald Smith

A Celebration of Life to honor Tom will be held at a later date for family and close friends.

Arrangements by DeMoney Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City.

Visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or to sign the online guest register.