Prairie State Wire

Bourbonnais, IL - Clifford W. Smith III, 73, of Bourbonnais, peacefully passed away at his home on Saturday, July 19th, 2025. Born on November 13th, 1951, in Chicago to Dr. Clifford & Shirley Jean Smith, Cliff married Clodagh Marie Casey in 1988.

Survived by his wife Clodagh Smith, daughter Bridget DeWees, son Clifford Smith IV, granddaughter Aurora Smith, brother Michael Smith, and extended family members. Cliff earned his degrees from Bradley University and VanderCook College of Music. He devoted his career to teaching music at St. Anne Grade School and providing private lessons at King Music.

A dedicated musician, Cliff played trumpet in several bands and enjoyed activities like golf, crossword puzzles, and solitaire. He was an active member of Maternity B.V.M. Catholic Church in Bourbonnais. Visitation will be on Friday, July 25th, 2025, at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home, with a funeral Mass on July 26th, 2025, at Maternity B.V.M. Catholic Church. Memorials can be made to the Kankakee Municipal Band and Uplifted Care.

Cliff will be remembered for his passion for music and teaching, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who knew him.

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