Harry Eugene Smith

Harry Eugene Smith

Harry Eugene Smith, born on Jan. 9, 1956, in Fort Scott, Kan., passed away on Sept. 27, 2024, at 4:20 a.m. He was a dedicated family man and a distinguished law enforcement officer whose career spanned several decades, marked by his commitment to service and community engagement.

Harry graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1974 and subsequently joined the Army National Guard, beginning his military service in the same year with their deferred enlistment program, as an MP. His passion for law enforcement began as a reserve officer with the Fort Scott Police Department in January 1974, a role that initially limited him from carrying a firearm due to age restrictions. Undeterred, he graduated from the police academy in October 1975. By 1978, he became a full member of the Fort Scott Police Department.

Harry continued to build his legacy in law enforcement by joining the Crawford County Sheriff's Office, where he served diligently as a detective and later as undersheriff. His journey through various ranks culminated in 1984 when he joined the Independence Police Department as a patrolman. Due to his exemplary performance, he was promoted to detective within six months and ultimately ascended to the role of chief of police in 2011. After his retirement in January 2016, Harry remained connected to his law enforcement roots by accepting a position as a deputy with the Montgomery County Sheriff serving as a bailiff, where he enjoyed reconnecting with old friends, and protecting the judges and staff of 14th Judicial District, until his eventual retirement in 2024. 

Harry took immense pride in his role as a law enforcement officer, viewing it as one of his greatest accomplishments. He was not only committed to his profession but also cherished his family life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Alberta Smith; his brother, Jewell Smith of Girard; his sister, Amanda Ogden of Grove, Okla.; and his children: Ann Steed and her husband Dan of Gardner, Kan.; Adam Smith and his wife Melissa of Gardner, Kan.; Lacie Masaveg and her husband Dan of Middleburg, Fla.; Jennifer Fienen and her husband Chad of Independence, Kan.; Brandy Sharp and her husband Greg of Fort Scott, Kan.; Shanna Wallace and her husband Shane of Wichita, Kan.; Katie Graham of Wichita, Kan.; and Crystal Smith and her husband Weston of Huntsville, Ala.

Harry was a proud grandfather to 18 grandchildren and had the honor of being a great-grandfather to five great-grandchildren. His love for family extended beyond mere words, as he derived great joy from spending time with them. He enjoyed hunting and occasionally fishing, and his yearly golf outings with his brother. Throughout his life he had many dogs and cats that he loved, as well his Guinea pigs. His greatest enjoyment was watching crime shows and telling his family everything that was done wrong. 

Harry is preceded in death by his father, Jewell Smith; his mother, Myrtle Baker; and his sisters, Jewell Arlene Smith (Susan) and Nancy Barr.

Harry Eugene Smith will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his unwavering commitment to law enforcement, and the lasting impact he left on the community he loved and served.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to either The First Church of Nazarene in Independence, Kan., or the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office “SERT” Team.

Services in care of Potts Chapel.