SPARTA - Cory F. Smith, 50, of Sparta, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 11, 2026. He was born on October 26, 1975, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Robert Sr. and Florette (Rankins) Smith. He graduated from Brookwood High School with the Class of 1994. Following high school, Cory continued his education by attending Vermilion Community College in Ely, Minnesota, and Western Wisconsin Technical College, La Crosse where he earned an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice.
Cory dedicated much of his career to public service. He began working as a Correctional Officer for the State of Wisconsin in Waupun before transferring to Jackson Correctional Institution in Black River Falls. Most recently, he was employed in private security.
Cory had a passion for sports and especially enjoyed coaching youth Park and Recreation programs. He was an avid fan of the Milwaukee Brewers and the Green Bay Packers and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams.
Cory is survived by his loving mother, Florette Smith of Sparta; his children, Josh Smith of La Crosse, Emma Smith of Sparta, and Matthew Smith of Sparta; his siblings, Robert Jr. (Dawn) Smith, Alan (Sandy) Smith, Kari Smith, and Jenny (John) Nagle, all of Sparta; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Cory was preceded in death by his father, Robert Smith Sr.; his maternal grandparents, Dearold and Vera Rankins; and his paternal grandparents, Vilas and Mabel Smith.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday July 18, 2026 at Ambassador Baptist Church, rural Sparta, with Pastor Josh Jones officiating. Private burial will be in Rockton Cemetery, Rockton, WI.
Family and friends are invited for visitation from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Ambassador Baptist Church. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation
