Smith Joseph Bachtold of Fairbury, Illinois walked into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, community involvement, and unwavering love for his family and faith.
His departure is deeply felt by all who knew him, but his life is remembered with gratitude and joy for the impact he made in his 28 years. Born June 27, 1997, in Santa Ana, California, Smith was the cherished son of Joe and Cathy (Uphoff) Bachtold.
He was a brother, a grandson, a nephew, a cousin, and a friend to many. He is survived by his loving parents, his four sisters—Joelle (Nick) Jones of Fairbury, Miah (Micah) Uren of Morton, and Emma and Abbey Bachtold of Fairbury—as well as his maternal grandfather, John Uphoff of Gridley.
Numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members on both sides also mourn his loss. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Roger and Shirlene Bachtold, and his maternal grandmother, Liz Uphoff.
Smith’s journey into adulthood was not without its challenges, but those who knew him witnessed the incredible growth and transformation he experienced over the years.
He was employed at Fairbury Fastener alongside his close friend Tanner Ifft. Their friendship and the work they did together were formative for Smith, allowing him to grow into the man his family and community admired.
Smith was always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it was supporting his best friends, Kolby and Gabby Kafer, volunteering at the Fairbury Chamber of Commerce, or serving as a proud volunteer firefighter in Fairbury, Smith found fulfillment in service and connection.
He was a young man of passion—deeply patriotic, strongly pro-life, and enthusiastic about conversations on politics. He also loved his Jeep and enjoyed the quiet joy of playing golf.
Family was everything to Smith. He had a special bond with his nieces and nephews and was never too busy to be present for his sisters. He had a gift for conversation and could connect with anyone—he truly knew no stranger.
The most transformative moment in Smith’s life came last year when he made the decision to follow Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior. His family holds tightly to the confidence that they will see him again in Heaven.
They extend an open invitation to anyone seeking that same hope—to reach out and learn more about the faith that gave Smith peace. Smith’s life, though brief, was filled with purpose, love, and unwavering spirit. He is missed, remembered, and deeply cherished.
Funeral services to honor and celebrate Smith’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 1, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Fairbury, with Pastor Daryl Evans officiating.
Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Pike Township Cemetery in rural Chenoa. Visitation will be held at the church from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., preceding the service.
