Kenneth William Smith

Kenneth William “KW/Ken” Smith, 52, of Independence, MO died April 7, 2026, at his home.

He was born in Sedalia, Missouri on May 8, 1973, to Max Alvin Smith and Eunice Lillian (Hudson) Smith. Ken graduated in 1991 from Smithton R-VI High School in Smithton, Missouri where he was known for his love of writing poetry, using proper grammar, and artistic abilities. During his high school years, he received many accolades and had poetry published nationally. His passion for English and Literature was the driving force to attend college at University of Central Missouri where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in education in 1995. He taught Secondary English at Russellville High School for several years before returning to Sedalia, MO where he worked at SMC Electric and Point to Point Business Development(P2P). While employed with P2P he was an important part of creating the company’s marketing and training materials, as well as directing the supplier management program. He moved to Independence in 2005 where he worked for the Social Security Administration and then the Community Action Agency of Greater KC in Kansas City, Missouri.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, many aunts and uncles.

Kenneth is survived by children Kevin Smith (Alicya), Kaine Smith, Kaleb Smith, Keith Smith, Kayla Smith, Khloe Smith, all of Independence, MO; one granddaughter, Kendall Smith of Independence, MO; a sister, Samantha Moore (Stephen) of Sedalia, MO; a nephew, Dillon Moore of Sedalia, MO; an aunt, Irene Smith of Sedalia, MO and many cousins.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00am at Smithton Cemetery in Smithton, Missouri. Friends and family members are welcome.