Rev. Michael B. Smith

The Reverend Michael B. Smith, 77, priest of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland, Pastor Emeritus of Immaculate Conception of Mary Parish, Akron, died Thursday, 18 July 2024 with the prayerful consolation of The Sacraments.

Michael Brien Smith was born in Cleveland, Ohio. He was educated at St. Ann Parish School, Cleveland Heights OH, and Rocky River, OH Public Schools. He graduated from The University of Dayton in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, and a Master of Divinity degree from Saint Mary Seminary Graduate School of Theology, Cleveland OH, in 1974.

Father Michael B. was a member of a class of 26 ordained priests of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland on 8 June 1974. He cheerfully served as parochial vicar in Wadsworth, Barberton, Olmsted Falls, Hudson, Cuyahoga Falls and Brunswick before becoming pastor of Immaculate Conception of Mary Parish, Akron OH, on 1 May 1998.

Descended from artists, Michael B. had a life-long interest in calligraphy, heraldry and vexillology (the history and lore of flags). A member of the North American Vexillology Association, he was particularly proud of participating in the design of the Hudson, OH, city flag, as well as many heraldic logos for parishes of the Diocese of Cleveland. Michael B. loved to travel, visiting 24 countries on 3 continents, 47 states (particularly the New Jersey Shore), and was a long-time rail fan of Amtrak passenger train adventures.

An active member of A.A. since 1986, he was always grateful to give back to The Program by assisting other recovering people with 4th and 5th Steps.

Predeceased by his parents, Frank C. and Betty Smith, uncles and aunts W. Manning and Minnie Smith, Walter F. and Christine Bandelow, godmother Nancy Stockdale, cousins Mark Stockdale, Thomas Bandelow, Billy, Judy, and Thomas Smith, and William Hickey. He is survived by first cousins Joan Hickey, Peter (Lolet) Bandelow, Christine Youngbluth, Richard (Lauree) Bandelow, and a large tribe of cousins, Rocky River High School and University of Dayton Alumni and friends.

Fr. Mike was a joyful soul, a faithful priest, a wonderful confessor and a friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Of Mary Parish, 2101 17th St. S.W., Akron OH 44314; St. Mary Seminary, 28700 Euclid Ave, Wickliffe OH 44092; or the University of Dayton 300 College Park Ave, Dayton OH 45469.

Vespers will be at Immaculate Conception of Mary Parish, Akron OH, on Wednesday, July 24 beginning at 3:00PM with visitation to follow until 7:00PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, July 25 at 11:00AM at the church, with visitation beginning at 10:00AM. Private burial at St. John Cemetery in Cleveland.