Alban C. "Burr" Smith

Alban C. "Burr" Smith, 87 of Beardstown, died Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at Mt. Sterling Nursing and Rehab.

He was born July 18, 1938 in Beardstown, the son of Edward Mitchell and Olive Southwell Smith.

He is survived by his children Jeff Smith (wife Lynn) of Beardstown , Melody Forsythe of Beardstown, Lori King (husband Don) of Petersburg, and Melissa Winner of Beardstown ; seven grandchildren Chad Kellerman (companion Charley), Britney Henderson (husband Justin), Braden Forsythe (wife Sadie), Adam Brewer, Sara Brewer, Amanda Krohe (companion Andrew), and Alvin Winner (companion Cadey); six great grandchildren Matt, Ella Brad, Brentyn, Braelyn, and Elias; one great-great grandchild Hazel; two sisters E. Marie Bunker of California and Ruth H. Smith (companion Dee) of Oregon; one brother C. Victor (wife, Nikki) Smith of Frederick; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters Mary M. Smith and Sandra S. "Sandy" Wilcox, two brothers Edward Mitchell Smith and Nolan L. "Lanny" Smith, and one foster brother John W. Aten (surviving wife Alta) of Beardstown.

Burr graduated from Beardstown High School with the Class of 1956 and proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1960 and was a lifetime member of Guthrie-Pierce VFW Post #1239 of Beardstown. He worked as a plumber and pipefitter with Peoria Steamfitters Local #353 Union for many years.

Burr had a lifelong passion for drag racing and music. He raced many cars and wrote and sang countless songs, performing not only with his original band, The Quiet Three, but with anyone and anytime he had the chance. He also found joy in fishing, especially dog fishing, and spending time outdoors searching for turtles and target shooting.

In accordance with Burr's request, cremation rites have been accorded, and a celebration of life with military honors will be held at a later date, with a meal to follow at Guthrie-VFW Post #1239 and a time of sharing memories. Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to Guthrie-Pierce VFW Post #1239. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.