Emerson Brent Smith, Jr.

Emerson Brent Smith Jr passed away in his home on Sunday April 20, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Emerson was a quiet man who was full of love and compassion for his fellow man. He was not one to talk a whole lot, but when he did he meant what he said. He had a huge smile that could brighten the room, some would say kind of a goofy smile that was contagious to those around him. Sincere and sweet all in one.

Emerson joined the military in his younger years. Spending his time enlisted in the United States Air Force building and deconstructing explosives. He joined the Force as a way to the country's mainland from his home in Hawaii. In his service he found a way to travel to new places and meet new people from all walks of life. All while giving back to his country and the people that he loved.

He enjoyed many things in his life but one of his favorite things was to go fishing. Never turning down an opportunity to throw a few casts out over some open water. Just picking up the rod even a few moments at a time was time well spent for Emerson. He found peace in nature. He loved to go camping or hiking and just being in the great outdoors. Taking in all the glories of nature and the wildlife. Grounding himself with the natural world around him. Stargazing on a clear night was something Emerson really enjoyed. He was sure to tell those in his life when something interesting was going on in the astros, so they could be sure to have the opportunity to observe it as well, such as the times the Aurora Borealis could be seen in wyoming.

Emerson loved animals and always treated them with nurturing hands. Animals loved Emerson as well as they could tell his gentle demeanor. His service dog Lincoln was an amazing companion animal to him and his beloved wife Tina. They were both so proud of how well trained he was. Getting compliments from people on how well behaved he is just about everywhere they would go.

More than anything Emerson loved his family and the people he held close to his heart. The time he spent with his “tribe” was priceless. Not all family is blood and Emerson had built a net of friends that became family over the times shared. The memories they made and the lessons they taught each other will go on to last a lifetime as the love shared will last forever.

He was a resilient and strong man. He faced two different rounds of chemotherapy and immunotherapies to battle his cancer all while taking care of his wife and her medical issues as well. Too strong willed and independent to ask anyone for any help along the way. Doing it all with that smile on his face. He was always concerned about the well being of those he cared about. Often telling them to “be safe in all you do!”

Emerson left this world with grace and in peace just nine days after the loss of his dearly beloved wife Tina Smith. Following her to the heavens to bask in the light and dance amongst the wildflowers for eternity

He is survived by his sister Lory Ono, his children Emily Reddye (Sam Reddye(spouse), Billy Peronek (Connie Peronek(spouse), his step children Byron Pinegar Jr, Nikki Largent (Brigg Largent (spouse) Brigg Largent, Jesse Malloy Wall, and Cody Wolfe and his grandchildren Bryce Racker, Brooke Racker, Mason Peronek, Kya Shae McFarland, MartiAnn and Olly Largent

He is preceded in death by his wife Tina Wall Smith and his first wife Gail Smith by his father Emerson Smith Sr. and his mother Carol Kealelani Akiona

A celebration of both Emerson and his wife Tina will be held at Bear River Ponds Pavillion on Sunday April 27, 2025 starting around 2:00pm to show up. Speeches will begin around 3:00p, with a spaghetti dinner to follow. They wanted us to have one last party for them, so let's gather together and celebrate the good times shared.