Thomas E. Smith, 68

Lisbon, Ohio — Thomas E. Smith of Lisbon passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Blossom Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, with his beloved wife at his side. He was 68 years old.

Tom proudly served his community as a deputy with the Columbiana County Sheriff's Office before joining its Drug Task Force. Beyond law enforcement, he earned a sixth-degree black belt in karate after training under Chuck Norris himself. He went on to own and teach at three martial arts schools, mentoring students in East Liverpool, East Palestine, and Lisbon.

Tom also worked as a stuntman and taught at a pyrotechnics camp. He was always chasing the next adventure, whether it made perfect sense or not. He could be serious and grouchy one minute, then have everyone laughing the next. Life was never boring with Tom, and he wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

He was preceded in death by his parents Everett and Ilene Smith, and his sister, Cathy Bagley.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 40 years, Sherry Smith, whom he married February 14, 1986; daughters, Stephanie Tomaiko (Matt), and Teresa Weddle (Heath); his son, Chuck Vatter (Suzanne); grandchildren, Tyler Vatter, Logan Farmer, Braydon Vatter, Colin Vatter, Cora Tomaiko, and Fiona Tomaiko; and a great-grandson, Braydon Vatter Jr.

Pastor Patrick Smith will conduct a funeral service on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Dawson Funeral Home. Friends may visit two hours prior, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Burial will be at Columbiana County Memorial Park.

Following the service family and friends will gather at the Dawson Family Center for a time of fellowship.