OSAGE CITY, Kan. – Larry Eugene Smart, 81, passed away Monday evening, July 13, 2026, at Peterson’s Assisted Living, Osage City, Kan., surrounded by those dearest to him. He was born April 23, 1945, in Wichita, Kan., the son of Wilbur and Pearlie Barnes Smart.
Larry attended LaHarpe High School and graduated with the class of 1963. He attended classes at Allen County Community College, but was always wanting to return to the farm.
Larry married the love of his life, Janice E. Nelson, June 12, 1962. They would begin their lives together living in Allen County, then moved to Burlington, Kan., in 1968.
Larry was a farmer by choice and design. He loved being a farmer, planting, raising and harvesting the crops that would feed countless others. Larry raised livestock in the form of pigs and cattle from time to time but always enjoyed farming most of all. He loved all things John Deere and amassed an impressive collection of model tractors over the years.
Larry and Janice moved to Osage City in April 2012, when Larry officially retired. They joined the First United Methodist Church, in Osage City, after moving.
Larry will live on in the hearts and treasured memories of his wife, Janice, of their home in Osage City; a daughter, Lynn Tice and husband, Jeff, of Osage City; two sons, Larry Smart, Frankfort, Kan., and Lyle Smart and wife, Brenda, Hutchinson, Kan.; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, with two additional great-grandchildren to arrive soon; numerous extended families; and a community of friends.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Jimmy Smart; a sister, Deloris Robb; and a granddaughter, Shanae Smart.
A memorial service was scheduled for Friday, July 17, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church, Osage City. Due to Larry’s love of John Deere and cheering for the Kansas State Wildcats, the family invited all to wear their favorite John Deere or Kansas State attire to honor Larry.
Memorial contributions may be made to SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) in honor of his granddaughter, Shanae, and sent in care of VanArsdale Funeral Chapel, 107 N. Sixth St., Osage City, KS 66523. Condolences can be left at vanarsdalefs.com.
