Kelly Smith, 59, of Hudson, Florida, passed away on October 10, 2025.
She was born on August 12, 1966, and spent her life working hard, loving deeply, and helping others in quiet but powerful ways.
Kelly had an immense love for the ocean. In recent years, she took up scuba diving and found great joy in catching and cooking fresh seafood. The water was her place of peace and freedom.
A determined and self-made woman, Kelly built her own insurance company from the ground up and faithfully provided for her family. She dedicated her life to ensuring her son had more opportunities than she did—and she succeeded. Her work ethic, resilience, and sacrificial generosity were the defining marks of her life.
Kelly had a heart that could not ignore someone in need. Whether it was helping an elderly woman named Fay recover money and find safe housing—and visiting her until she passed so she wouldn’t die alone—or caring for her father through his battle with Alzheimer’s when others would not, Kelly consistently stepped in when most people stepped away. These are only two examples of the countless acts of compassion she quietly carried out throughout her life.
She was strong, protective, and deeply loyal. Though she carried heavy wounds from her past, she never stopped showing love through action. Those who knew her best saw a woman whose toughness masked a deeply tender heart.
Kelly was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Smith.
She is survived by her son Joshua Ritchey and his wife Jazmin, her grandchildren Liberty (13), Tesla (11), and Emerson (3); her brothers Bryce, Brian, and Tracy; and her mother.
Kelly’s legacy is one of sacrificial love, fierce protection, and unwavering strength. She gave all she had so others wouldn’t suffer. She will be deeply missed, profoundly honored, and forever remembered by those whose lives she touched.
Kelly Smith
