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Nicholas Smith
Born: 3/22/1949
Died: 8/2/2026
Age: 77
Community: Grand Blanc, MI
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SMITH, Nicholas – of Grand Blanc, age 77, passed away Sunday, August 2, 2026, at his residence. Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Allen Funeral Home, 9136 Davison Rd., Davison, MI 48423; Andrew Klock officiating. The family will welcome visitors one hour prior to the service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Genesee Wind Symphony, in Nicholas’ memory.
Nicholas was born in Kansas City, KS, on March 22, 1949, the son of the late Ned and Audra (Long) Smith. On June 13, 1986, he married the love of his life, Cheryl McGinnis, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned four decades. Nick was a proud graduate of Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, KS, and continued his musical studies at the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY. His passion for music led to a distinguished career in higher education, serving first as a professor of music at the University of Oklahoma before joining Wichita State University, where he also served as Associate Dean of the Fine Arts Department. An exceptionally talented musician, Nick was best known for his mastery of the French horn. He performed with the Wichita Symphony for more than 40 years and shared his gift at numerous music festivals throughout the country, earning the admiration and respect of fellow musicians and audiences alike. Following his retirement six years ago, Nick and Cheryl made their home in Michigan. With his characteristic sense of humor, he often said he was happy to have joined Cheryl's "Irish Clan." Never one to put his instrument away, he became an active member of several community bands in the Flint area, continuing to share his love of music with others. Beyond music, Nick was an avid automobile enthusiast with a special appreciation for classic cars. He took great pride in restoring his 1976 BMW 2002 and found immense enjoyment attending car shows throughout Michigan, where he loved admiring craftsmanship and connecting with fellow car enthusiasts.
Nicholas is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Cheryl Smith; 1 sister-in-law, Mary Jo (Cecil) Klock; 1 brother-in-law, Darrell (Alma) McGinnis; several nieces, nephews and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; 1 brother, Pete Smith; 1 brother-in-law, Bryce McGinnis, Jr.
Please share your thoughts with the family at www.allenfuneralhomeinc.com.
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| Visitation |
| Date: |
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8/8/2026 |
| Time: |
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| 10-11 AM Saturday, August 8, 2026 |
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| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
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8/8/2026 |
| Time: |
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11:00 AM |
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| Location: |
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Allen Funeral Home
9136 Davison Rd
Davison, MI 48423Get a Map to this location...
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| Official: |
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Andrew Klock |
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