Silas Lee Smith, 4 year old son of Bobby G. and Alyssa (Guess) Smith, of Albany, Missouri, was born May 31, 2013 in Maryville, Missouri and passed away Friday, May 25, 2018 at his home.

Silas had a unique zest for life and curiosity about the world. He was an avid nature lover who aspired to become a "person who catches animals." At four years old, he was already highly successful in this in endeavor. He captured, observed and released hundreds of frogs, toads and insects. He also caught mice, birds, squirrels, snakes, turtles and many other small animals-often with his bare hands.

Silas had a profound understanding of life and what is truly important. He deeply loved his family, friends and neighbors. He valued both work and play. He was kind, thoughtful, and full of joy. He found beauty in all things and appreciated even the most simple pleasures. His life has brought communities together and inspired people both young and old to experience the world around them in a more meaningful way.

He was preceded in death by his family pets Patch, MoTown and Heebie.

Survivors: his parents, Bobby and Alyssa and sister Willa, all of the home; maternal grandparents, David and Gayle Guess, Albany; paternal grandmother, Lavon Smith, Albany; paternal grandparents, Mickey (Judy) Smith, Maryville; maternal great-grandparents, Maurice and Nell Guess, Albany; aunts, Andi (Paul) Houseworth, Apex, NC; Tracy Smith, Albany; cousins and family pets, Little Lizard, Millie and Jeebie.


Memorial Contributions: Henry Doorly Zoo Foundation in Omaha or the National Tiger Sanctuary in Branson in care of the Roberson-Polley Chapel, 403 N. Hundley, Albany, MO 64402.