Stanley Kennell Smith, Sr.

Stanley Kennell Smith, Sr., 67, of East Moline, Illinois, formerly of Rock Island, passed away on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at his residence.

Born on December 21, 1957, in Louisville, Mississippi, Stanley was the son of Juanita Smith and Willie D. Hardy. In 1958, Juanita moved to Rock Island, Illinois, where she met and later married Rogers Terry on February 13, 1959. Rogers raised Stanley as his own.

Stanley attended Rock Island Public Schools and graduated from Rock Island High School in 1975. During his school years, he participated in the wrestling program. In 1977, he married Sheila Royal, and together they had three sons.

He worked primarily as a CNC welder before retiring. Known affectionately in his housing community as “Doctor Stanley,” he was beloved by neighborhood children who often received snacks from him. He enjoyed watching Westerns, reading the newspaper daily, and cooking, frequently preparing meals for his mother.

Stanley is survived by his mother, Juanita Terry; his sons: Corey Smith of Des Moines, IA; Stanley Smith Jr. (Katrina) of Rock Island, IL; and Joshua Smith (Candace) of Carrollton, TX; seven grandchildren; siblings: Tarvis Terry of Rock Island, IL; Germaine Jones (Christopher) of Moline, IL; Cynthia Clark of Rock Island, IL; Jessica Sykes (Tish) of New River, AZ; Wendell Terry of Davenport, IA; and his partner of 15 years, Wylinda Johnson of East Moline, IL. He also leaves behind many uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Rogers Terry.

Cremation was directed by Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Moline, Illinois. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on his memory page at mvcremation.com

The Smith and Terry families extend heartfelt thanks to all who offered condolences and support during this time.