McLean -- Samuel R. Smith, 87, of McLean, passed away on Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Carle BroMenn Medical Center in Normal.

Services for Sammy will be held on Saturday, June 3, 3023, at the McLean Christian Church. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Funeral Services officiated by Mr. Tony Billingsley will begin at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be in the McLean Cemetery.

Samuel Robert Smith was born on December 16, 1935, in McLean, the son of Vester Robert and Edith Snow Smith. He was united in marriage to Marjorie Cates on October 10, 1954. She preceded him in death on April 18, 2004.

He is survived by his loving companion of many years: Mary Lou Wilkins, two children: Susie Smith and Bobby (Kelly) Smith; two granddaughters: Sydney (Patrick) Collins and Caroline (Quinn) Collins; and four great-grandchildren: J.W., Reese, Mica, and Tres.  

He was preceded in death by one son: Samuel Allen Smith, two sisters: Mary and Esther Smith, and one brother: Paul Smith. 

Sammy graduated from McLean Community High School in 1953. He farmed his entire life in the McLean area. Sam was the road commissioner for Mt. Hope Township for sixteen years. He was a member of the McLean Christian Church where he served as a Deacon for over forty years. Sam was an avid antique collector and enjoyed building toys.

Sammy was a friend to many and loved to go on car rides with Mary Lou. He religiously attended and fan-supported extended family grandchildren's softball games. Sammy loved parties, adored his Texas granddaughters and great-grandchildren and enjoyed watching them show their horses and race motorbikes. He told stories like no other and always made you laugh! He was kind, funny, talented, and very smart.

Memorials may be made to the McLean Christian Church or the Mt. Hope-Funks Grove Fire Department and Ambulance Service.

Quiram-Peasley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.