Brian Smith passed away unexpectedly of heart failure on August 18, 2026. He was 65 years old, born March 18, 1961. He spent his last 8 years in Lexington, SC with his sister, but spent most of his life in Muskegon, MI. He is survived by his daughter Danielle Kuptz, his father, Dr. Lowell Smith (Susan), two brothers, Christopher (Debra) and Stuart Smith, and a sister, Stephanie (Tim) Weaver. He was preceded in death by his Mother Janet Lee Smith. 

He was born in the Indiana University obstetric hospital, where his father was in medical school, and subsequently lived in Michigan, Illinois, West Virginia, Texas, Florida, and South Carolina. He was a graduate of North Muskegon High School and attended Northern Michigan University studying film. 

He was very well read in the classics, was a film aficionado, pop art collector and critic, and authority on popular western music from the Edison era to the 1990’s. He was active in local and international discussion groups on current topics. 

He had many jobs throughout his life centering around sales as he was a fast learner with an easy ability to connect with people. He was a determined and successful salesman, a proud grocery union member, and in his most recent position as customer service associate he was recognized for his quick wit and ability to generate smiles and chuckles in tense moments whenever they arose. 

His great passion was as a singer/ guitarist/ chronicler of 20th century pop songs in open mic nights or through busking. Though he was sought after as a harmonica maestro playing with others, it was his greatest passion to craft each performance with respect for the audience in front of him and the connections made through song. 

A celebration of his life will be posted through his Facebook page.