Steven Lee Smith, 68, husband of Jo Tucker Smith, passed away at his residence in Wauchula, on Saturday, August 28, 2021. Steve was born in Wauchula, Florida on October 8, 1952, the son of Harold "King Kong" and Trieste Clemons Smith, a fourth-generation native Floridian. He was a resident of Hardee County most of his life.
Steve grew up on the Buckhorn Ranch, the fourth generation to do so. He graduated from Largo Senior High School and retired after thirty-nine years of service with Embarq Florida. He was the General Manager of the Buckhorn Ranch and Groves. Steve was a member of New Hope Baptist Church and served on numerous church committees. He was a member of the Hardee County Cattleman's Association.
Like his father, Steve had the gift of friendship. He never met a stranger and had the gift of making you feel like the most important person in the world. He was happiest in a room full of the family telling stories of the past and good times shared. He was passionate about his family's ranch. Steve was always ready to go to a gun show, loved firearms, and enjoyed hunting. He cheered for the Florida Gators all his life.
Steve loved his family. He was fiercely loyal to those he loved. His generous spirit and laughter will be missed by all.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold "King Kong" and Trieste Clemons Smith, his stepfather, Robert Lawrence Prescott, and his sister, Clemie Jo Lamb.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters Kelly Jo and Katelyn (Katie) Lee; brothers William Clay Smith (Gina) of Sumter, SC; Robert Lawrence Prescott Jr. (Jan) of Birmingham, Al; sister, Sandra McCorkle (Larry) of Casselberry, Fl; several nieces and nephews; and more cousins than can be counted.
Funeral services will be held at New Hope Baptist Church, in Wauchula, Wednesday, September 1 at 11 AM, Pastor Jeff Clemons, Mr. Marcus Shackleford (his cousins); Dr. William Clay Smith (his brother); and Rev. Kevin Roberts officiating. Interment will follow in the New Hope Baptist Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10 AM to 11 AM at the church.
Memorials may be made to New Hope Baptist Church.