Phillip Gene Smith, beloved father, grandfather and brother, of Hutchinson, KS, passed away September 22, 2026, in Wichita, at the age of 79.

He was born December 28, 1946, in Kiowa County, to Merton and Ardath Smith (Avery).

Phillip graduated from high school and attended college in Bend, OR. He lived the majority of his life in Hutchinson, where he raised his daughter, and retired from Quality Control at Superior Boiler Works. He also proudly served in the United States Army.

Phillip enjoyed classic cars, like the Roadster once proudly owned. He had an appreciation for classical music, especially loved the moldy oldies, as well as the spanish guitar. Phillip also enjoyed breeding pugs for a time, playing poker, and liked to read.

He was always there willing to help when anyone he cared about was in need, and seemed happiest simply being outdoors spending time with friends and family.

Phillip will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Cremation has taken place.

He was preceeded in death by his parents and maternal grandparents, Roy and Anna Quick, both of Hutchinson, KS. Sister, Cynthia Moore (Jim) of Lyndon, KS. Brothers, Robert Smith (Barbara) of Phoenix, AZ, and Edward Smith (Linda) of Bradford, PA. Great Grandson Azariah Joseph Liptow (Rosie and Anthony) of Hutchinson, KS.

He is survived by daughter, Maria Beltran, of Hutchinson, Grandchildren, Isaac Beltran, Rosie (Anthony) Liptow, Aliyah (Louis) Williams, Elijah Trass, and Great Grandchildren, Ariel and Adamina Liptow, Opal, Marciano and Damian Williams. Brother, Brent Hobbs, of Niceville, FL. Sisters, Deanna (CJ) Compton of Lee's Summit, MO, and Paula Clements, of Tecumseh, NE.

A Celebration of Life for Phillip will be announced at a later date.

Memorials may be sent to Old Mission Heritage Funeral Home in care of the family.