K. Benard (Ben) Smith II, age 65, Albany, died Friday October 17, 2025 at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital following a short illness.  Born in Mesa, Arizona on April 21, 1960, he grew up in Gilbert (AZ) and was a graduate of Gilbert High School (class of 1978).  Ben received an Associate Degree from Chandler-Gilbert Community College and had lived in Michigan before moving to Albany 2013.  Over his lifetime, Ben had many jobs including working at his dad's tire shop, owning a cabinetry business, and while living in Michigan he owned & operated B&D Sales – a U-Haul and golf cart repair shop.  His last job was in Muncie working for Small Engine Warehouse.  Ben was a former collector of Hot Wheels cars and had a good working knowledge of antique cars.  He was baptized two years ago at Albany United Methodist Church where he became a very active member.

Survivors include his wife whom he married on April 3, 2004, Sonia Smith; son: Blayne Smith, Monroeville; daughter: Sofia Smith, Albany; mother: Dorothy Ann (Forshee) Smith, Gilbert, AZ; brother: Bill Smith (wife: Penny), Gilbert, AZ; sisters: DeAnn Karns (husband: Bobby), Easley, SC, and Kim Riggs (husband: Jason), Gilbert, AZ.  Several nieces & nephews also survive.

He is preceded in death by his father, K. Benard Smith, who died in 2007.

Cremation was chosen.  A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday November 1, 2025 at Albany United Methodist Church.  Visiting hours are Saturday from 2 until 4 p.m.

A memorial in Arizona will be held in the future; details will be posted here when details are known.