Rod L. Smith

Rod L. Smith, 61, of Independence, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2003 at St. Joseph Hospital. Funeral services will be 7 p.m. Thursday August 7, at Speaks Suburban Chapel. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until time of service on Thursday. The family suggests contributions to the Special Olympics, 1 Lee Dr., Merriam KS., 66202. Rod was born March 27, 1942 to Noel and Stella Smith in Sturkie, AR. Mr. Smith graduated from Westport High School in 1960. In 1961 he married his high school sweetheart, Patsy Marshall. Rod gave 35 years of service with Kansas City Power & Light. In his spare time Rod loved to play with his grandchildren, and was an avid poker player. Rod is survived by his wife, Patsy D. Smith, of 42 years; two sons, Rodney Smith, Jr., and Darryl Smith, both of Independence, his daughter Cathy Medley, Kansas City, MO; his mother Stella Smith, his brother, Lynn Smith, and sister, Carol Ann Spinski; both of Raytown, MO; brother Mike Smith, Harrisonville, MO; three grandchildren Jarrod, Kylah, and Tristan Medley, all of Kansas City, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.