Terrence W. Smith, 78

Terrence Wayne “Sarge” Smith, 78, passed away Jan. 8, 2026, at the Idaho State Veterans home in Post Falls, Idaho, to be with God. 

He was born in Chicago, Ill., but was a long-time resident of Sandpoint, Idaho (1999). He suffered from illnesses stemming from Agent Orange and is now at rest, whole again, in the arms of our Lord. 

Terrence was born to Clarence Smith and Janet Smith (Korman). He loved and played baseball and football growing up. He was very audacious, running with a group of guys under the nickname “Fish,” boldly living life. 

On Feb. 3, 1968, Terrence was drafted in the U.S. Army as a 91B (mechanic). He reenlisted Aug. 27, 1969, with 5th Group Special Forces MACVSOG CCN Recon team RT Kansas 1-1. He served our country valiantly as a Green Beret, a true hero.

After Vietnam, Terrence began a 23-year career as a Chicago firefighter for the CFD starting with Snorkel Squad 1, Instructor at the fire academy, and an axeman on the truck at his assigned fire station. After being diagnosed with bladder cancer in 1995, Terrence was forced into retirement and, in 1999, moved to Sandpoint, Idaho, with his mother, Janet, and daughter Shanna. 

Terrence is predeceased by his mother, Janet Smith (Korman), father Clarence Smith, and brother Frank Smith. 

He is survived by his daughter, Shanna (John) Swalander, son Jeremiah Smith, granddaughter Aurora Lippard, grandson Edwin Swalander, grandson Logan Swalander, sister Diane (Robert) Prater, and brother Richard (Susanna) Smith. Terrence was a huge advocate of the outdoors and weekly outings with the Dinky Dau breakfast club with his band of brothers. 

He will forever be remembered, loved and missed by many. 

Airborne. All the Way.

Bell Tower Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.