MCCONNELL – Byron J. Smith, 81, of McConnell, IL passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2021 at UW Hospital in Madison, WI in the Covid-19 Unit. He was born on August 22, 1939 in Monroe, WI to Byron and Mary (Devlin) Smith. Byron married Rosemary Lolling on April 22, 1957 in Monroe. Byron worked for the Illinois Department of Transportation as a foreman, retiring after 31 years.

Byron enjoyed hunting, fishing, going on fishing trips to Canada, and trapping. He enjoyed the outdoors and wildlife, making his own maple syrup, and raising chickens. Family meant everything to Byron, always attending his grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s sporting events.

Byron is survived by his wife of 63 years, Rosemary of McConnell, two children; Brian (Connie) Smith of Winnebago, IL, Brenda “Tootie” (Michael) Fox of Lena, IL, grandchildren; Troy (April) Smith, Nicole (Jarod) Olson, Clay Smith, Erica (Justin Perry) Arnold, Courtney (Adam) Coutlhard, Jena (Cole) Patrick, step-grandchildren; Ethan (Morgan) Bunger, and Elayna Grasley, and 14 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ralph and a sister in infancy.

A public visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 30, 2020 at the Leamon Funeral Home in Lena, IL where masks will be required, and social distancing guidelines will be practiced.

A private family service will be held.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Pastor Roger Bronkema will officiate the services.

A memorial has been established in his memory. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.leamonfh.com.