Daniel Richard Smith

Daniel Richard Smith, age 60, died on Friday, January 9, 2026, in Lenior City, Tennessee.

He was born on March 11, 1965, in Corbin, Kentucky, to parents Junior Smith and Stella Messer Smith.

Richard was an avid nature and wildlife enthusiast. He especially loved gardening and discussing flowers with his mother. He will be remembered for his enjoyment of swimming, dancing, and music.

Richard is survived by his son, Freddie Gomez; granddaughters Mia and Ava; parents Junior and Stella Smith; sisters Denedda Smith, Regina Redmond, Lovetta Shaw, and Marsha Buchanan; brothers Robin Smith and Raymond Smith, 16 nieces and nephew; and 16 great nieces and great nephews.

His graveside wil be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, 1:00 p.m. at the Messer Family Cemetery (Messer Cemetery Road, Gray, KY), with Rev. Kenny Johnson officiating.

Arrangements by the Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home, 607 Master St, Corbin, KY 40701, where messages may be written to the family at vankirkgrisellfuneralhome.com