Mr. Richard L. Smothers, 88, of Springfield, IL died December 4, 2022 at Memorial Medical Center, Springfield.

He was born July 31, 1934 the son of Larry and Edith Smothers.  He graduated from South Fork High School in 1952 and in 1967 married Joyce Lauwerens, who preceded him in death in 2013.

He was a member of the United Mine Workers and retired from Freeman United.  He enjoyed bowling and spending time outdoors and entertained himself with mechanical projects and watching TV Westerns.

He is survived by a brother Gary (Gigi) Smothers of Taylorville, IL., sisters Faye Hay (Dan) of Chatham, IL., Beverly Wiggs of Mascoutah, IL., brother-in-law Jim (Mary Ann) Lauwerens of Chesterfield, IL., sister-in-law Linda Lauwerens of Dawson, IL., 12 nieces and nephews and his faithful dog Ralph.

Visitation will be held Friday, December 9, 2022 at Masterson’s Funeral Home in Kincaid, IL from 10 to 11:00 A.M. with a short prayer service to follow.  Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery in Pawnee.  Memorials are suggested to the Animal Protective League – 1001 Taintor Rd – Springfield, IL 62702.  Condolences may also be left at mastersonfh.com