Rodney "Rusty" Russell Smith, 59, of Newark, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, with the love of his life and wife of 37 years, Patti (Zinn) Smith by his side.

Born on April 30, 1966, to the late Donald and Eunice (Fisher) Smith, Rusty spent his life building connections, creating memories, and sharing his passions with those around him. He was employed solely at Owens Corning for many years where he was known for his hard work and dedication.

Rusty's love of music was the heartbeat of his life. A devoted fan of the Grateful Dead and ekoostik hookah, Rusty spent countless joyful nights following their music, eventually curating his own legacy through the Psychedelic Relic Sight and Sound Experience.

He also found happiness in the simple pleasures: weightlifting, DJing, and summer days spent by the pool making memories with his beloved family.

He will be greatly missed by his wife, Patti; children Baron (Courtney), Chase (Sara), and Amanda; grandchildren Jaica, Keelan, Keller, and Palmer; and his loving beabull dog Charlie. He is also survived by his siblings, Tony Boler, Rhonda (Paul) Saling, Rocky (Connie) Smith, and Jeanie (Kevin) Denman.

Rusty's presence, laughter, and love will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Rusty's name can be made to the Newark Organization for Creative Arts: Music Lessons and Rock Band, NOCA 33 W. Church Street, Newark, Ohio 43055; https://nocapresents.org/individual-support/

"Fare Thee Well to the Relic"