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Curt will be remembered most for the way he loved. He loved deeply, worked tirelessly, laughed often, and always put his family first.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend, Curtis Wayne Smalley, who passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, at the age of 74, surrounded by the love of his family.

Curt was born on January 21, 1952, in Coffeyville, Kansas, to the late Ben and Della Smalley. He attended Central High School, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Ann Ward, known lovingly by all as Patty. Curt was a man whose life was defined by hard work, unwavering devotion to his family, and a quick wit that could make anyone laugh. Those who knew him will remember him as funny, stubborn in the very best way, incredibly dependable, and someone who never met a challenge he wasn’t willing to tackle.

Curt and Patty were married on April 4, 1969, and went on to share 57 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, faithfulness, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Even after all those years together, Curt never stopped reminding Patty how much she meant to him. Whether they were in the same room or he was relaxing in his “man cave,” he would often send her a simple text that said, “I love you, Mom.” Their love was one that inspired everyone who knew them.

Curt served as the Manager of Quality Control for Pipeline Equipment, where he finished his career. He took great pride in his work and believed in doing every job with integrity and excellence. His work ethic wasn’t just something he practiced—it was something he passed on to his daughters through both his words and his example.

Curt’s proudest accomplishment was his family. He adored his three daughters and loved them fiercely. He taught them to be strong, to work hard, and always make sure their mother was taken care of.

Outside of work and family, Curt found tremendous joy in being an active member of the Oklahoma Elks, where he served as past State President of the Northeast District of Oklahoma. Through his involvement, he formed lifelong friendships and treasured the fellowship and sense of community it provided. He was also an avid sports fan who loved cheering on the Oklahoma Sooners, watching golf, and spending time outdoors.

Although he accomplished many things throughout his life, Curt will be remembered most for the way he loved. He loved deeply, worked tirelessly, laughed often, and always put his family first. His quiet strength, steadfast presence, and generous heart have left a legacy that will continue to live on through everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Curt is survived by his beloved wife, Patty Smalley; his brother, Dennis Preston and sisters Deborah Wagner and Jeanie Meloy;  his three devoted daughters and their families: daughter Tina Limes, husband Danny Limes, and their sons, JD Limes, wife Correy Limes, and Joshua Limes, wife KK Limes; daughter Heather Steelman, husband Stevie Steelman, and their children, Donna Tillery, husband Dillon Tillery; Ty Steelman, wife Lacie Steelman; Jake Steelman; Bella Steelman; Victoria Steelman; and Violet Steelman; and daughter Angie Skaggs, husband Ryan Skaggs, and their children, Makenna Parks, husband Chance Parks; Kinsey Roelofs, husband Alex Roelofs; Kase Skaggs; Jersey Skaggs; and Allie Skaggs; his cherished 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and his extended family; and countless friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents and other loved ones who welcomed him home.

The family finds great comfort in knowing that Curt is now free from pain and reunited with those who have gone before him. While our hearts are broken by his absence, we are forever grateful for the years we were blessed to share with him.

A celebration of Curt’s life will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Olivet Baptist Church where an Elks Memorial Service will be held in accordance with Curt’s wishes. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery in Sand Springs, OK.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, hospital staff, hospice team, chaplain, and the many friends and loved ones whose prayers, kindness, and support carried them through this difficult journey.

Dad, thank you for teaching us what strength looks like, what unconditional love feels like, and what it means to put family above all else. We promise to keep watching over Mom, just as you asked. Until we meet again, we love you beyond words and will carry you in our hearts forever.