Vernon LaWayne Smith was born on July 10, 1940 in Walters, Oklahoma to Luther Eddie and Jane Estaline (Costen) Smith. He went to be with Jesus on December 29, 2025.
After Vernon graduated high school he joined the United States Army and faithfully served his country. Vernon’s ability to organize and fix things helped when he started working at Permiane Corporate where he quickly moved up their ladder to be the shop supervisor and they sent him to many of their other locations to do the same.
Vernon met and later married Joan McCoy Pfeiffer in Midland, Texas on October 5, 1987. They lived in Midland until 1990 when they relocated to their permanent home in Guthrie.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents Luther and Jane Smith, wife Linda Smith, brothers Johnny and Kenneth Smith, and stepson Cletus Pfeiffer. He is survived by his wife Joan Smith of the home, son Curtis Smith and granddaughter Erica Smith of Guthrie, stepson William Giltner, stepdaughter Lori Pfeiffer of Ogden, Utah, stepson Kurt Pfeiffer and wife Kelly of Guthrie, as well as many other step grandchildren, relatives, and friends.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Community Church (512 E. Seward Rd., Guthrie, OK 73044) with Pastor Don Riepe officiating.
Arrangements were under the direction of Hayes Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at hayesfh.com.
Published in the Guthrie News Leader - January 7, 2026