Kenneth Thomas Smith

Kenneth Smith, 58, of Fairfax, Virginia, died on May 11, 2024, while enjoying a walk with his two housemates, Craig and Stephen, on a beautiful afternoon in his neighborhood, something that he loved to do.

Ken was born in Fairfax on June 18, 1965, to Mary Louise Mattingly (née Logsdon) and Larry Smith. His parents preceded him in death, and he is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Valeria Frances and Liam Montanarelli, his step-nephew, Samuel Attwood, stepmother, Sherry Smith, stepsister, Kellie Grant, and step-niece, Kassie Tuma; and all of his aunts, uncles and many loving cousins. Ken was unforgettable, and we will all miss him.

As a child, Ken would climb clear to the top of 100-foot trees in his yard and yell “Hi” to his favorite neighbors, and our kitty, Brandy, would sometimes join him. As an adult, Ken enjoyed eating out at restaurants, going to the movies, hiking, and meeting new people. He also enjoyed learning new things and admiring photographs of beautiful meals in specialty cookbooks.

As a disabled person, Ken navigated and overcame many challenges in his life. His very life changed laws, entitling disabled children the right to a public education when it was the expected norm to institutionalize disabled children and never look back. Ken knew he was surrounded by love and angels and regularly called on their help. You don’t have to be anxious anymore, Ken. We are very proud of you. Thank you for the teachings.

Ken was delivered into the arms of our mother, Mary Louise, on Mother’s Day weekend. On our mother’s birthday, his Celebration of Life will be held at Fairfax Baptist Church at 10830 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030, on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 12 to 2 p.m. A light lunch will be provided, and everyone is encouraged to share favorite memories and stories about Ken and his antics.

We are very grateful for all of the people who have supported Ken in living his life and the extraordinary people who have woven in and out of our family over the many decades. Many folks worked lovingly and compassionately with Ken at Community Systems, Inc., Service Source, and the Community Services Board of Fairfax County government. A very special thanks to Teneshia Bullock, Shek Kabia, Mike Griffin, Alhassan Fofanah, and Tayren Pettigrew, who supported Ken in his daily life at his group home at the time of his death. Also, a profound thanks to Dr. Michael Scherer and Nimisha Suphian, who deftly supported Ken with his psychiatric medical needs for decades.