Bechel Smith, age 81, of Manchester Ky, passed away on January 19th, 2026, at the Landmark of Laurel Creek Nursing Home. Born on October 27th, 1944, in Manchester, Kentucky, Bechel was the beloved child of the late Nelse Smith and Roxie Smith.
Bechel is lovingly remembered by sisters Darlene Myers, Charlene Hatfield, and Patsy Jones (husband Ted). He is also survived by nephews Charles Smith, Scott Hatfield, Josh Hatfield, John Smith, Wade Hacker, Jamie Stewart, Brent Sizemore, and Jeffery Stewart; nieces Sherry Hubbard, Shawn Smith, Crissy Smith, Judy Stewart, Jennett Gray; and a host of cherished friends and extended family.
Bechel was preceded in death by his sisters, Nannie Sizemore, Margie Stewart, and Mary Hacker; brothers Garrison Smith, John Smith, and Charles Smith; his son Benjamin Hacker; nephews Brian Sizemore and Bechel Smith; nieces Janet Runion and Dawn Hacker; and brothers-in-law David Hacker and Calvin Hatfield.
Visitation for friends and family will be held at Britton Funeral Home, Manchester, KY, beginning at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 23rd, 2026. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 23rd, 2026. Burial will take place at Reid Cemetery, with services officiated by George David Blair.
Bechel will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
