Barry Smith Obituary

In Loving Memory of Barclay (Barry) "Big Bear" Smith. December 14, 1961 – July 6, 2025. Barry Smith, age 63, a lifelong resident of Davison, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on July 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A Memorial Service to celebrate Barry's life will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025 at 1 PM at Allen Funeral Home, 9136 Davison Road, Davison, Michigan 48423, with Pastor Kevin Galloway officiating. Visitation will take place on Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 4-7 PM and Sunday, July 13, 2025 from 12-1 PM at Allen Funeral Home.
Barry was born on December 14, 1961, in Lapeer, Michigan, to Ronald and Judith (Carver) Smith. A proud and dedicated member of Local 370, Barry worked hard for 30 years and enjoyed eight fulfilling years of retirement. He approached life with purpose and joy-treating each day as a gift and making the most of every moment. On May 15, 1993, Barry married the love of his life, Kathleen Mucha. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. Barry had a passion for woodworking, gardening, cooking, music, boating, and classic cars, especially muscle cars. He found joy in sharing his talents with family and friends, whether around the dinner table, under the hood of a car, or out on the lake.
Among Barry's fondest memories were family gatherings, boating on Torch Lake, and traveling with Kathleen. However, his greatest joy came from being a father and grandfather. He treasured every moment spent with his son, Grant, and his grandson, Colton, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Barry leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and kindness. In his final weeks, his thoughts were with those he held dearest-his devoted wife Kathleen, his beloved son Grant Steven (Brett Lauren), and his best friend and grandson, Colton John. They shared stories, laughter, and precious time together that will forever be cherished. Also holding Barry's memory close are his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Denise (Ed) Hodgkinson, Leo (Beth) Mucha, Michelle (Burt Andrews) Debernardi, Andrea (Scott) Fike, Terry Prutznal, and Victor Debernardi; as well as many nieces and nephews: Kyle (Jennifer) Prutznal, Kevin (Jamie) Prutznal, Eric (Deanne) Hodgkinson, Paul (Lisa) Hodgkinson, Whitney (Dave) Meerman, Rachel (Matt) Reilly, Lance Mucha, Alexander Leo (Kate) Debernardi, Natalie Debernardi, Nicholas (Lindsey) Debernardi, Olivia (Cooper) Frambes, Lane Fike, Jacob (Chloe) Eastman, and Abigail Decker. He was a proud great-uncle to: Justin (Kate), Franklin (Rachel), Vincent, Morgan (Tristan), Madison, Gabriela, Elizabeth, Alixandrea, Graham, Charlotte, Brayden, Julianna, Annaliese, Lawsyn, Blakely, Finley, Shepard, Miranda, and Tyler, and great-great-uncle to Kelvin, Theo, and Riley. Barry is also fondly remembered by his loving aunts: Peggi Ticonny, Sally (Bob) Thiede, Sue (Mike) Dougherty, Kathy (Jerry) Shipp, and Sherry Boyden, along with many cousins and countless lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald Smith and Judith Walker; in-laws Leo and Joyce Mucha; brother Steven Smith; sister-in-law Lanette Prutznal; nephew Kurt Prutznal; his Nana Virginia Lincoln; grandmother Gladys Smith; and special uncles Joe Ticonny, Kenny Crowell, and Earl Boyden.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Heartland Hospice-especially Alexis, CC, Michelle, and Nadya-for their compassionate care; and to the Arnold, Morris, Macksey, and Hazard families, Kim Jared, ELGA Credit Union family, caregivers Carrie and Jolene, Relaxation Station (Nicole and Marista), and their Torch Lake family for their unwavering love and support.
Barry will be remembered for his dedication to hard work, his kindness and generosity towards others, his deep love for family, and his willingness to lend a helping hand. His presence, wisdom, and laughter will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
To honor Barry's memory, the family asks that you consider donations be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 200 Vesey Street, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10281.
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