Rodney Lee Smith

Memorial services for Rodney Lee Smith, 66, of Portales will be held at 11:00 AM, May 11, 2026 at the Central Christian Church with Pastor Don Thomas officiating.  Christopher Funk Smith, James Carnes, Sergio Avila, Armando Avila, Joe Maestas and Michael Montoya will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Rodney Lee Smith was born June 30, 1959 in Albuquerque to the home of Laverne Elaine (Grapp) and Claire Jay Smith and passed from this life on April 8, 2026 in Clovis, NM.  Following his graduation from high school, Rodney worked for Galles Motors installing stereos and making autos ready for delivery. He was injured at the age of 19, and had been unable to work since the age of 25.  On Dec. 11, 1982, he was married to Bonnie Funk.  They made their home in Albuquerque until 1992 when they moved to Portales.  Rodney was a member of Central Christian Church in Portales.

Even though he was unable to be employed, he voluntarily installed phones and helped with various errands for those in need.  Rodney was a very helpful and attentive uncle.  For several years he flew gas powered model airplanes.  In more recent times he enjoyed flying a drone.  He was also a cat lover.

Rodney is survived by Bonnie, his wife of 44 years; a son, Christopher Funk Smith of Portales; a daughter Nicole Sanchez and her fiance, Michael Montoya of Portales; two grandchildren, Sergio Avila and Armando Avila; four great-grandchildren, Amiyah, Sereniti, Renesmae and Aurelia Avila; a brother, Allen Smith of Albuquerque and a sister, Rebecca Peterson of Austin, TX.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Gary Smith.

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