Nelson “Butch” Smith, JR. 1940-2017

Nelson “Butch” Smith, Jr, 77, of Zanesville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family and friends, Monday, September 17, 2017, at Genesis Morrison House Hospice following a very brief illness. He was born June 29, 1940, in Zanesville, the son of Nelson J. Smith, Sr. & Violet (Gassaway) Smith and was a faithful and dedicated member of Word of Life Ministries.

Nelson had a strong passion for singing and was inducted into the Ohio Western Country Music Association (OWCMA). He retired from Sears with over 20 years of service. He enjoyed spending time and was a regular at the Muskingum County Center for Seniors. Nelson loved to square dance and you could always find him faithfully every Friday at the dance.

Nelson is survived by three sisters: Gladys Willey, Pamela (Gregg Giroux) Johnson and Yvonne Worden all of Zanesville; two brothers: Mike & Jackie Smith of Zanesville and Dave & Carol Smith of Waverly; a sister-in-law: Barb Smith of NC; a very special friend: Mary Lou Coen of Philo and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Nelson was preceded in death by his lifelong friend: Rollin “Buster” Clice; one brother: Gary Smith; two brothers-in-law: Dean Willey and, Terry Worden and one sister & brother-in-law: Norma & Mike Webb.

A cremation will take place and Memorial Services will be held 1:00 PM, Monday, September 25, 2017, at Word of Life Ministries, 713 Dryden Road, Zanesville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hillis, Combs & Nestor Funeral Home to assist with arrangements. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsnestor.com