Current Services

Charley Smith
06-01-2026

Charley Smith, born September 26, 1952, at McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, passed away on Monday June 1, 2026, at Dougherty Hospice House in Sioux Falls.  He was the only child of Charles and Alice Smith.

Charley was raised in Sioux Falls, where he attended Cathedral Grade School and graduated from O’Gorman High School in 1970. He also attended St John’s University in Collegeville, MN, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Augustana College in 1978.

From a young age, Charley was drawn to the visual arts and music, passions that shaped much of his life. He worked as a commercial artist and later a self-employed piano tuner. Charley also performed music in Louisville, Kentucky and Sioux Falls, sharing his talent and love of music with others. Playing music with people was a constant in his life. Charley was a proud member of the Sioux Falls band the Rocky Mountain Oysters. Charley shared his talents with other bands and gigs throughout the years as well. Charley had hoped to continue playing into his 80’s, but inflammatory arthritis eventually limited his ability to perform.

In the 1980’s, charley was actively involved in the South Dakota Arts Council and the Friends of Traditional Music. He served as a board member and contributed his artistic talents. Charley was inducted into the SD FOTM Hall of Fame in 2021 as a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, supporter and performer for over 40 years.

Charley is remembered for his creativity, dedication to the arts, and the many connections he made throughout his life. He expressed deep gratitude for the creative people he met over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Charles Smith. We’ve heard it said from many that Charley was THE favorite among his friends.

Charley wanted to express a special thanks to his cousin Mike Gould and family, his stepson, Brandon Jett, and of course his musical family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Charley’s honor to the South Dakota Friends of Traditional Music non-profit foundation or a charity of your choice.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 9, 9:30 AM at Barnett-Lewis Funeral Home with a Memorial Service at 10:30 AM.