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 August 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 and humility. He was an amazing care giver with a heart of gold and was so incredibly kind. He was notorious for his quick wit and playful one liner’s, which will be deeply missed. Al’s best dog friends Tweedle, Toby, Rigsy and Anna were his babies and had their tails wrapped around his finger :)

     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. This was a perfect fit for Al, as he truly enjoyed caring for and supporting families in need.

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

     Once again, Al found love. He married Joyce Estal in 1994. Joyce was a blessing for both Al and his family. Her daughter, Angie and husband Eric, became a great addition to his 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 she passed in 2012.

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

     Al was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Fannie Smith, in laws Herb and Darleen Butts, wife Phyllis Smith, wife Joyce Smith and his sister 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 2:00 with family greeting, followed by Eulogy and sharing, with military honors to be presented at 4:00.

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

     In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family.