Larry Allen Smith

Larry Allen Smith, of O’Fallon, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the age of 68. He was the beloved husband of Barbara A. Smith; cherished son of the late Henry A. and Anita R. Smith; devoted father of Crystal (Curtis) Prusha and Jacob Beard; loving grandfather of Owen Prusha; dear brother of Jerry (Judy) Smith, Linda Duez, Gene (Michelle) Smith, and Vicki (Karl) Larson; and a treasured uncle, cousin, and friend. Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Randy Smith, and his sister, Bonnie Schrodt.

Larry’s love of music was surpassed only by his love for his family. He and Barbara shared 29 wonderful years of marriage after being introduced on a blind date by his Aunt Cheryl — a meeting that became the beginning of a beautiful life together. Larry deeply loved his family and found great joy in caring for and spending time with those closest to him. One cherished family tradition was his live performance of “Happy Birthday to You” each year for his grandson on his birthday.

Larry touched countless lives through his music and his years of teaching at Mozingo Music. When he was not playing his beloved saxophone, he enjoyed simple pleasures such as biking and maintaining a pristine lawn.

After a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Air Force, where he attained the rank of Master Sergeant, Larry continued pursuing his passion for music as a member of the “Big Little Big Band.” Throughout his career, he traveled extensively, performing for audiences across the country. His remarkable musical talent placed him before a Pope, two United States Presidents, Aretha Franklin, Bernadette Peters, and Frank Sinatra Jr., among many others. Each year, he especially looked forward to performing in the Lawyers Association of St. Louis’ Grid Iron Show.

Larry was also a devoted man of faith and a member of First Baptist Church of St. Charles, where he faithfully played with the church orchestra. Larry was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on June 12, 2026, at Glasford Baptist Church, located at 209 E. 5th Street, Glasford, IL 61533, beginning at 12:00 PM. The funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 PM. Separately, a Celebration of Life will be held on June 14, 2026 at The Abbey, located at 5801 W. Main St, Belleville, IL 62226, from 6-9 PM. In honor of Larry, please feel free to dress in his favorite attire - all denim.

Memorial donations may be made in Larry’s name to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306, or to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Donations may also be made online through Tunnel to Towers Foundation or The American Cancer Society.