Byron William Smith

Byron William Smith was born in Denver at Rose Hospital on February 19, 1958, to Mildred and James Smith. He left this earthly plain peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on November 16, 2024.

An authentic “Colorado native”, Byron grew up in Arvada, attended Arvada West High School where he played football, and received his bachelor’s degree from Denver Metro State College. Byron’s career began with the Rio Grande Railroad and he retired from Amerigas after 27 years of service.

Byron married Susan Reichert on December 19, 2015 and was the love of her life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Susan; his brother Jeff (Ginger); his sons, Daniel (Brittany) and Matthew (Ivania); stepdaughters, Stefanie and Suzanne; and grandsons, Vincent, Louis, Benjamin and Giovanni. While he loved his entire family dearly, his grandsons held a special place in his heart.

Byron was just shy of his 32nd recovery birthday. He will be eternally loved and missed by his many friends in the 12-step Fellowships. He helped carry the 12-step recovery message into the Denver County Jail – monthly without fail - from 1994 until Covid. He helped many in the community as well.

Byron was the world’s greatest Broncos fan. He loved to watch Bronco games with his Dad and brother, sons and his friends. He was a talented guitarist and songwriter and had a great voice, entertaining audiences at open mics and campfires along the Front Range. He loved fishing for lake trout and trips to beaches near and far. Though he took up the game late in life, Byron was an avid golfer and played the game well.

Byron was a BBQ ribs master. He made his own famous BBQ sauce and took his recipe with him. While he mastered his BBQ ribs, he sadly never mastered the internet connection for his Traeger smoker. Nevertheless, he always brought the most amazing ribs to endless parties with family and friends.

Byron loved his life and fought for it until the very end. He was a God-loving man, maintaining his faith throughout his long illness. He went to sleep peacefully with a smile on his face. He will be missed forever.

Please join us in a joyous celebration of Byron’s life at 2pm on January 11, 2025 at the Thornton Active Adult Center on Colorado Blvd. There will be food, beverages, photos and music in his honor, followed by a 12-step meeting at 5pm. All are welcome

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