Lyle Blair

Smith

Lyle Blair Smith of Westland, Michigan, passed away on November 14, 2026 at the age of 95.

Born in Ferndale, Michigan, to Berton and Maeola Smith, Lyle graduated from Ferndale High School in 1949 and went on to attend General Motors Institute (GMI) in Flint, where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Following his education, Lyle proudly served in the military from 1954 to 1956, stationed at Camp Wolters in Texas.

In 1956, Lyle met the love of his life, Patricia Ann (Pitts) Smith, at a square dance. They married that May and shared 49 wonderful years together before Patricia preceded him in death. Later in life, Lyle was fortunate to find love and companionship again with Opal Spear, with whom he shared 21 devoted years.

Lyle dedicated 38 years of his career to General Motors, where his mechanical ingenuity and hard work earned him several patents-an accomplishment he was especially proud of. Never one to sit still for long, he continued working in the automotive industry for another five years with Ford Motor Company following his retirement from GM.

After retiring from Ford, Lyle enjoyed traveling and spending time with family at his beloved lake house in Gladwin, Michigan.

Lyle had many interests and hobbies throughout his life, including square dancing, camping, hunting, fishing, boating, genealogy, and tinkering with just about anything that needed fixing. He also appreciated the simple pleasure of a good nap! His faith was an important part of his life, and he was an active member of the First United Methodist Churches in both Wayne and Gladwin.

Above all, Lyle cherished his family. He was a loving father to Linda Lehmann, Laurie (Robert) Patterson, and Loren Smith. He was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Matthew (Kristen) Lehmann, Joseph Lehmann, Randy Patterson, Dayna (Brandon) Witte, Travis Smith, Carmen Smith, and Mason Smith.

His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Corbin Witte, Deklin Witte, Grant Lehmann, Carson Lehmann, Allison Lehmann, Annie Lehmann, and Orion Lehmann, with one more little blessing on the way.

Lyle is also survived by his devoted partner of 21 years, Opal Spear, and his brother, Neal (Jackie) Smith.

Lyle will be remembered for his dedication, ingenuity, love of adventure, strong work ethic, and, most importantly, his devotion to family. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will live on through the generations.