MONROE CENTER — Brian John Smith, “Smitty”, 63, passed away Sunday, August 4, 2024 at his home in Monroe Center, IL with family by his side.  Brian was born on November 25, 1960, the son of LaVerne and Dorothy (Jones) Smith in DeKalb, Illinois.  On March 24, 1984, he married the love of his life, Mary Gerace in Rochelle, IL.

Brian is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary Smith of Monroe Center, IL; three children: Philip (Jennifer) Smith of Byron, IL, Logan  Smith of Davis Junction, IL, and Joshua (Rebecca) Smith of Stillman Valley, IL; five grandchildren: Tripp, Anna, Johnathan, Josephine and Banks Smith; Mother: Dorothy Smith; Uncle: Richard Smith; two sisters: Jody (Ed) Weidman of Downers Grove, IL and Diane (Scott) McClaren of Rockford, IL. 

He is preceded in death by his father: Laverne Smith; son: Nathan Smith; and father and mother-in-law: Thomas and Dorothy Gerace. 

Brian was a loving family man, a devoted friend, a proud farmer, and an avid Chicago sports fan.

Brian was a member of the Esmond Cemetery Board for many years.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4:00 - 7:00 P.M., Friday, August 9, 2024 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St., Rochelle, IL.  Cremation care has been provided by the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, Rochelle, IL.  Contributions may be made to Brian’s family. They would like to plant a tree/s in his memory. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.