Tom L. Smith, 74, of Bardstown, died Friday, May 1, 2026, after a brief illness. He was born in Louisville Monday, Sept. 10, 1951, to the late Claude and Doris Smith.
He was a 40-year member of the Masonic Order. He was initiated as an Entered Apprentice at Okolona Lodge #853 F.&A.M. on Oct. 25, 1985. He passed to the degree of Fellow Craft on Nov. 22, 1985, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on Dec. 27, 1985. As a devoted and active Mason, he was a dual member of Fern Creek Lodge No. 955 F.&A.M., where he served as Worshipful Master in 1991. He was also an honorary Past Master of Okolona-Preston Lodge No. 281 F.&A.M. where he faithfully served for 32 years as secretary, including service under its former designation as Okolona Lodge No. 853. In addition, he was a proud member of the Louisville Scottish Rite.
He was widely regarded as the “go-to” brother within his lodge — deeply knowledgeable in Masonic work and steadfast in ensuring the lodge operated with integrity and purpose. His dedication, mentorship, and steady, level-headed guidance left a lasting impression on all who passed through the lodge, and he was known for his honesty and unwavering commitment to the Craft.
He spent more than 30 years as a roofer with the Klem roofing, building a reputation for diligence and pride in a job done well. His path later led him to the transportation team with JCPS, where he served as both a driver and a trainer until retirement, offering not only service, but guidance — helping others learn with patience and confidence.
Outside of work, he found joy in simple, lasting pleasures: bird watching, time with his dogs, and trips to Gatlinburg with his wife Jo Ann. He was a proud Pappaw to his four grandchildren, a role he held close and spoke of with unmistakable warmth. He also loved woodworking, creating pieces for others to admire — hands-on expressions of care and craftsmanship. In quieter moments, he could often be found playing solitaire on his tablet, content in the calm of an ordinary day made meaningful.
In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by one son, Shawn Smith.
He is survived by his wife, JoAnn Hickerson; one daughter, Heather Gray (Bill); one daughter-in-law, Hazelon Smith; one brother, Gene Smith (Virginia); four grandchildren, Zach, Regan, Jake and Kaylee; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
The funeral is 7 p.m. Monday, May 11, 2026, in the chapel of the Schoppenhorst, Underwood and Brooks Funeral Home with a Masonic Service at 6:30 pm.
Visitation is 1 – 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
The Schoppenhorst, Underwood and Brooks Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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