Thomas W. Smith, age 61, formerly of Yorkshire, Ohio, and a resident of the Gardens of Celina, died on Thursday, May 23, 2024 at Mercer County Community Hospital.

He was born on January 12, 1963 in Coldwater, Ohio to the late Robert & Virginia (Bergman) Smith.

His mother survives in Versailles. He is also survived by children: Meaghan & Zachary Hegemier, Richmond, Ind.; Emma Smith, Victoria Smith, Caleb Smith all of North Star; grandson Slade Hegemier; sisters & brothers-in-law: Teresa & Walter Bertke, Atlanta, Ga.; Diana & Dave Brackman, Celina; Patricia & Robert Gehret, Versailles.

He was preceded in death by his father, sister Lora Poeppelman, granddaughter Violet Hegemier and niece Hannah Gehret.

Tom was a proud graduate of Versailles High School, was celebrated for his vibrant personality and diverse passions. Throughout his life, he was an active member of his parish council, an avid gardener, a dedicated baker and die-hard Cleveland Brown and Versailles Tiger fan. In 1998, at the age of 35, Tom was diagnosed with Stage 4 brain cancer and given six months to live. Defying all odds with his remarkable strength, unwavering faith, and the support of his family and friends, he turned those six months into 26 precious years. Tom found immense joy in spending time with his children and grandson. He loved listening and singing along to music, and he cherished playing Tric-Trac and Bingo at the nursing home. His love for life and family was evident to all who knew him. Tom's enduring spirit and passion for life will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 31, 2024 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church, Osgood. Burial to follow in St. Martin Cemetery.

Friends may call at the Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Minster on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 3-7 p.m. and on Friday, May 31 from 9-10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Darke County Right to Life and The Center for Neurological Development.

Condolences may be left at hogenkampfh.com.