Christene Fike Smyth, 77, of Ravenna, Kentucky, passed away on February 11, 2026, at her home of many years with her husband present. Born on September 27, 1948, at Buck Creek in Estill County, Kentucky, she was the child of Ernest and Rosie Belle “Pete” (Lynch) Fike.
She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Buddy Joe Smyth: her three children: Tammy Howell (Budd Tucker) of Ravenna, KY, Andrea Elm (Terry) of Milton, FL, and Joseph Smyth of Franklin, KY. She is also survived by four grandchildren: Kristin Usry (Trey) of Gulf Breeze, FL, Charles Howell of Ravenna, KY, Shelby Kennedy (Travis) of Norfolk, VA, and Austin Howell (Andika) of Lexington, KY and their two boys, Jeremih and Link. She is also survived by one sister, Ruth Thacker, and many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by special neighbors and close friends Bill and Linda Muncy as well as their grandchildren, Brey, Frankie, Parker, and Sophie whom she loved dearly.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Price Fike, and three sisters, Geneva Fike, Ruby Jean Fike McMaine, and Elizabeth “Annie” Fike.
She was a member of the River Drive Christian Church, a member and Past Worthy Matron of the Irvine Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #357, and a member and Past Worthy High Priestess of the Irvine Shrine #9 of the Order of the White Shrine of Jerusalem. She helped to establish a Job’s Daughters Bethel in Estill County and was a Bethel Guardian during the time her daughters were members.
She retired from bookkeeping and had worked for several businesses in Estill County. She spent several years working for Glenda Gay Oliver CPA. She also spent time working for the Fayette County Public Schools Finance Office.
She was a compassionate, kind person who especially loved kids. She was known for her love of Christmas and decorating and often had people come through to view the house during the holiday season. She was a wonderful cook that enjoyed preparing food for her family and friends. She also enjoyed having nice clothes and shoes, of which she had an abundance. She will always be in our hearts and in our memories.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, February 15, 3 PM, at the Warren F. Toler Funeral Home with Bro. Tim Jones officiating. Private burial will follow after the service. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1 to 3 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to your favorite charity.
