Val Howard Smith

Val Howard Smith, age 84, of Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025. Born in Cincinnati on February 14, 1941.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years on September 15th, Gale Ann Smith (née Sanger).

Val was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Aleene (née Ewing) and his brother, Albert Smith Jr.

He is also survived by his children: Denny (Beth) Smith, Ken (Schani) Smith, Donna Smith, and Joe (Debbie) Smith. He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren—Olivia, Kevin, Kenny Jr., Connor, Kiley, Ryan, Cory, Paul, Jason and step-grandchildren Mary Beth, Eric, Sarah and ,Kelley—and was blessed with 8 great-grandchildren and 6 step-great-grandchildren. Additionally, he leaves behind extended family members and friends.

A man of many passions, Val enjoyed bowling, golfing, and cheering for the Cincinnati Reds. He loved boating, playing poker, and was known for his enthusiasm at chicken fries. Val dedicated a significant portion of his life to serving the community, volunteering with Mack Fire Inc., and proudly owned Al Smith Paint and Decorating Center in Bridgetown and Harrison, Ohio.

In honor of Val’s memory, donations may be made to Grace Hospice, located at 4435 Aicholtz Road, Suite 400, Cincinnati, Ohio 45245, or St. Jude Church on Bridgetown Road, 5924 Bridgetown Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45248.

A Mass celebrating Val's life will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at St. Jude Church, with a reception to follow at Nathaniel Green Lodge, 6394 Wesselman Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45248.

Val will be deeply missed, and his legacy will forever reside in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. To leave a memory or a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.