Michael L. Smith, 75, of Beardstown, IL, died Sunday, June 20, 2021, at Culbertson Memorial Hospital in Rushville. He was born May 6, 1946, in Peoria, the son of Virgil and Beulah Morrell Smith. He is survived by three daughters and four sons, Kristy Smith of Savannah, TN, Michelle Smith of Taylorville, Melissa Marsh of Springfield, Michael (Taylor) DeWitt of Meredosia, Joseph (Shannon) DeWitt of Beardstown, Matthew (Erica) DeWitt of Chambersburg, and Daniel (Shelbie) Flath of Meredosia; twenty-two grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; and one sister, Rebecca Davis of Meredosia. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Michael Smith Jr. in infancy; two brothers, Burdette Smith (surviving wife Vicki of Colorado) and Ronnie Smith; and one sister, Rosalee Blackwell. Mr. Smith was a lifelong truck driver. He loved to joke and pester people. He had a very unrealistic love for his children and grandchildren, who affectionately referred to him as stubborn and hard-headed. The family will meet friends 10-11 a.m. Thursday, June 24, 2021, at the Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home in Meredosia, followed by a procession to Oakland Cemetery in Meredosia for a graveside service. Memorials are suggested to the family, in care of Matthew DeWitt, to help with expenses. Condolences may be left at buchanancody.com. . Visitation Buchanan & Cody Funeral Home, Meredosia Chapel Thursday, June 24, 2021 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 117 S. Putnam St. Meredosia, Illinois 62665 Graveside Funeral Service Oakland Cemetery Thursday, June 24, 2021 11:15 AM Oakland Street/Cemetery Riad Meredosia, IL 62665