Alfred (Al, Butch) Charles Smith Jr.

    Alfred (Al, Butch) Charles Smith Jr., passed away at the age of 86 on Sunday, April 13, 2025. Thankfully, he died very peacefully in the comfort of his home, with his family by his side; which is what we all want for our loved ones in the end.

     Al was born in Des Moines Iowa on Aug. 26, 1938, to Fannie and Alfred Smith Sr. He had an older sister, Betty. His family life was very simple, but played a big role in all that Al grew to be.

     Al was a man of moral principles, integrity, humility and was an amazing care giver. He had a heart of gold and was so incredibly kind and let’s not forget his quick wit; his one liner’s will be greatly missed.

     Al was in the Marines for two years. He then followed his father’s footsteps in the car business. He was well known and respected in the industry and was known as, ‘Easy Al’. Once retired from the car business, he went to work for the Ronald McDonald House, which was a perfect fit for Al; a role he truly enjoyed, caring for and supporting families in need.

     Al married Phyllis in Des Moines on Dec.1, 1957. They enjoyed time with family and friends, boating, golfing and bowling. They had three children, Cynthia, David and Kathy, who were blessed with an amazing father. Al and Phylis were married for 36 years, prior to her passing in 1993.

     Al found love, once again. He married Joyce Estal in 1994. Joyce was a blessing for both Al and his family. Her daughter, Angie and her husband, Eric become a great addition to family as well. He and Joyce cherished time spent with family, loved watching sports and enjoyed vacationing together. AL and Joyce were married for 18 years, before her passing in 2012.

     Al was survived by his children, Cindy Punelli, Dr. David Smith (Colleen), Kathy Smith (Scott VerHuel) and bonus daughter, Angie Birch (Eric). Grand children, Ryan Heath, Amber Thach, Jake Smith, Alexa Smith, Maddie Gioffredi, Zach, Collin and Macy Birch. He had 18 great grandchildren, 3 great - great grandchildren and his best dog friends Toby, Rigsey and Anna.

     Al was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Fannie Smith, in laws, Herb and Darleen Butts, first wife, Phylis Smith, second wife, Joyce Smith and sister his Betty Biondi.

     The family will be honoring Al on Sunday, April 27th at the Merle Hay Funeral Home - 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines. Celebration of life to start at 2:00pm, for family greeting, followed by Eulogy and sharing, with military honors to be presented at 4:00pm.

     Al’s family would like to thank everyone for all the care, love and friendships that brought so much joy and happiness to him throughout his life. As well as Cindy, Al’s daughter, who lived with Al and took such great care of him and gave the family piece of mind.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to support causes important to Al.