Morris "Moe" Smedley, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, coach, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Moe lived a life centered on family, friendship, and service to others through his many years of teaching and coaching. His warm personality, sense of humor, and genuine interest in others helped him form lasting friendships and meaningful connections throughout his life. Whether spending time with loved ones, encouraging a student or player, or sharing stories with friends, he left a lasting impression on countless lives through his kindness, generosity, and genuine care for others.
Moe was born on September 7, 1944, in Marion, Indiana, to Jewel and Mabel Smedley. He was raised in LaFontaine, Indiana, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, perseverance, and service that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from LaFontaine High School in 1962 before attending Ball State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in physical education in 1966 and later a master's degree in education.
While attending Ball State, Moe met the love of his life, Carol. They were married in 1966 and shared a loving partnership that spanned sixty years. Together they built a family grounded in love, loyalty, and unwavering support. Though he achieved much professionally, Moe often considered his greatest accomplishments to be his family. He was a devoted husband, proud father, and loving grandfather and great-grandfather who rarely missed an opportunity to support and encourage those he loved.
Moe dedicated 42 years of his life to education. As a physical education and health teacher, he encouraged students to develop healthy habits, strong character, and a commitment to lifelong learning. He also spent many years as a driver's education instructor, patiently helping young people gain confidence and responsibility behind the wheel. Generations of students benefited from his guidance, wisdom, and willingness to invest his time in their success.
Basketball provided another avenue for Moe to impact young lives. Over a 35-year career as a varsity head coach, he led programs at East Central, Delta, Carroll (Flora), Eastbrook, Manchester, Marion, and Northfield. A fierce competitor who expected excellence from his teams, Moe challenged his players to work hard, play together, and carry themselves with integrity both on and off the court.
An early highlight of his coaching career came in 1976, when he served as the assistant coach on Marion's state championship team, an experience that helped shape the philosophy he carried throughout his career. Years later, he returned to lead the Marion Giants to a state runner-up finish in 1998. Two years later, he guided the team to a Class 4A state championship in 2000.
Throughout his career spanning more than three decades, his teams secured 10 sectional championships, 3 regional titles, 2 semi-state championships, and 1 state championship. While he celebrated those accomplishments, Moe took the greatest pride in the relationships he built with his players and the positive impact he had on their lives long after their playing days were over.
Moe's contributions to athletics and education earned him induction into the Marion High School Athletics Hall of Fame, the Manchester High School Athletics Hall of Fame, the Grant County Sports Hall of Fame, and the Wabash County Sports Hall of Fame. These honors recognized not only his success as a coach but also his commitment to mentoring young people and strengthening the communities he served.
Away from teaching and coaching, Moe enjoyed golfing with friends, fishing, and spending time with family. His competitive nature was matched by a generous spirit, and he was always willing to help others and celebrate their successes.
Moe is survived by his devoted wife, Carol Smedley; his children, Cathy Trout (Brian), Chris Smedley (Wendy), and Kim Bradshaw (Scott); his beloved grandchildren, Tyler (Arin), Emily, Kyle, Max, and Sam; his cherished great-granddaughter, Elliyah, and his older brother, Max Smedley of Palmdale, California. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jewel and Mabel Smedley, and his sister, Suzanne Thompson of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Moe's life was a testament to the power of commitment, hard work, and caring for others. He competed hard, loved deeply, gave generously, and led by example. His influence will continue to be felt through the countless students he taught, the athletes he coached, the communities he served, and the family he cherished. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the values he instilled in so many others.
Moe’s family wishes to express their sincerest appreciation to the compassionate caregivers at both Mason’s Health & Rehabilitation Center and Stillwater Hospice.
Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Grace Community Church, 1810 E. Bradford Pike, Marion, Indiana 46952 with Pastor Tom Mansbarger officiating. Burial will follow at LaFontaine I.O.O.F. Cemetery in LaFontaine, Indiana.
Visitation for friends and family will be three hours prior to the service on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation: https://www.parkinson.org
McDonald Funeral Homes, LaFontaine Chapel, 104 S. Main St., LaFontaine, Indiana 46940, have been trusted with the final arrangements for Morris "Moe" Smedley.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com
