Elon Shealy Smith, 81, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on February 17, 1945, Elon lived a life marked by quiet strength, hard work, service, and deep love for the people around him. While many knew him as Elon, the majority knew him as papa a title that he represented so very well. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, May 15, 2026 at Rose and Graham Funeral Home in Benson. Funeral Services will be held-1:00 PM Friday, May 16, 2026 at Rose and Graham Funeral Home. Officiating will be Rev. Ronnie Casper. 

Elon proudly served his country in the United States military during the Vietnam War. His service reflected the courage, dedication, and selflessness that would continue to define the way he lived his life long after returning home.

He was the kind of man who was always busy working with his hands, often found tinkering on lawn mowers or fixing something for someone he cared about. Elon had a thoughtful spirit and a generous heart, always finding meaningful ways to show his love to family and friends. To those who knew him best, he will be remembered not only for what he did, but for the steady and comforting presence he brought into their lives.

Above all, Elon was devoted to his family. His love was often shown in quiet, thoughtful ways — through the gifts he carefully picked out, the time he gave so freely, and the traditions that became treasured memories. One especially cherished tradition was bringing every person he deeply loved a personalized fruit basket every Christmas morning.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bobby; his beloved wife, Waverly Carol Smith; and his precious grandson, Warren Bennett Oser.

Elon is survived by his son, Elon Shealy Smith II; brother Tommy Smith, adopted son Jeff and wife Joy Johnson. his grandchildren, Emily Oser and her husband, Tyler Oser, Michael Oneal, Matthew Smith, Jessica Della-Coletta and her husband, Drew Della-Coletta, and Johnathon Johnson; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Delanie, Mason, Westin, Waylon, Allison, Ashlynn, Remington, Raelynn, Addyson, Asher, Andi, and Jackson.

Elon leaves behind a family who adored him and countless people who were blessed to know his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering heart. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in all who knew him.

The family would like to extend a deep thank you to so many people but wants to recognize, Jona Ennis, Joy Johnson, the Heartland Hospice team, and Brian and Veneta Ford.