June 30, 2003 – July 8, 2025
around him. He had a special way of making everyone feel welcome, and his warm hugs will be cherished memories for all who knew him. Ely had dreams of a beautiful future with his companion, Sayre, including plans for a ranch he affectionately named “$ Ranch.”
His bond with his sister, Chasity, was profound; they were not just siblings but also best friends. He especially enjoyed helping his sister show pigs at livestock shows. Ely lovingly teased her about romance, playfully declaring that she could only have one boyfriend—Harley Casey.
Ely was a devoted son, frequently enveloping his mother in hugs while she cooked, always saying, “love you,” reinforcing that he would always be her “little buddy.” He knew he could ask his momma for anything and she would give it to him.
Ely shared a special connection with his father, Jeremy, whose teachings shaped him into the man he became. His work ethic shone through as he excelled as a farmer, ranch hand, and driver at W2 Hotshot Service, partnered with his father.
He was a cherished grandson, being the first grandson to Nanny and Papa, as well as the first grandchild to Gammy and Poppy, and he deeply loved his family. Ely found joy outdoors, whether he was coon hunting, fishing, duck hunting, deer hunting, bow fishing, or roping.
Ely loved spending time with friends. He had so many best friends that were more like brothers.
A true man of faith, Ely cherished his favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13, which inspired his life and deeds.
Ely is survived by his devoted parents, Stephanie and Jeremy Smith; his beloved sister, Chasity Smith; his cherished companion, Sayre Childers of Mannford, Okla.; his grandparents, Jack and Deneen Taylor of Spiro, Okla. and Pam Smith of Vian; as well as three aunts, Angela Skaggs and Steven “Chief ” of Vian, Jill Grady and Curtis of OKC, Okla., and Vanessa Taylor of Spiro, Okla.; along with several cousins, other relatives, and countless friends whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Papa Donnie Smith.
Visitation was held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, Okla. The funeral service took place at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Blackgum Harvestime Church in Vian, followed by burial at Box Cemetery in Vian, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.
The family invited all who knew Ely to join them in celebrating his life. Active pallbearers were Brett McElhaney, Connor Flynn, Cayden Flynn, Marcus Butler, Gannon Brown, and Harley Casey. Honorary pallbearers included Dylan Haning and Garrett Todd.
Ely Smith’s spirit, kindness, and love will forever resonate in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace.
Ely Smith, a bright 22-year-old from Vian, Okla., departed this world on July 8, 2025, in Tulsa, Okla. He was born on June 30, 2003, in Poteau, Okla., to his loving parents, Stephanie Rose (Taylor) Smith and Jeremy Wayne Smith.
Ely lived life with a radiant smile with his dimples shining and an infectious spirit, always sharing joy with those
