Delbert Smith

Delbert K. Smith, 81, of Inverness, FL passed away on Monday, September 7, 2015 at Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness, FL.  Delbert was born April 30, 1934, in Laurel County, Kentucky, the son of Joseph and Nancy Smith. He was awarded the designation of “Kentucky Colonel” in 1963.  Delbert moved to Celina, Ohio in 1958 where he founded and operated the Deluxe Dry Cleaners.  He opened additional dry cleaner locations as his business grew.  He also opened Laundromats, car washes, the Galley Supper Club, and the Captains Hide-A-Way. He was an active member of the Celina Jaycees.  Delbert retired to Inverness, FL in 1996.  He was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Hernando, FL.  He was preceded in death by his first wife Barbara Smith and his grandson Kyle David Thomas.

Delbert enjoyed watching football/basketball games, tinkering and he especially loved to get out and be with family, friends and new acquaintances – swapping stories and reminiscing.

Survivors include his wife Donna Smith of Inverness, FL, daughter Dianna Thomas and her husband David of Lakeland, FL, sons David Smith and Doug Smith, both of Celina, OH; seven grandchildren, Joe Smith (Stacey), Justin Smith (Ashlee), Kristin Reeder (Eddie), Cassie Bell (Don),  Rylan Thomas, Brandon Smith (Alyssa) and Kendra Smith. Great Grandchildren: Avery, Raylee,  Kelson, McKenzie, Mia, Maddox, Macey, Brayley, Kolton and Alexa.

Funeral services for Mr. Smith will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, September 12, 2015 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Hernando, FL. Pastor Kenneth Blyth will preside.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Hernando, FL or the American Cancer Society.  Heinz Funeral Home & Cremation, Inverness FL.