Tyler Smith grew up in Rochelle, graduated from Rochelle Township High School and began serving his country through the National Guard at the age of 18.
Referred to by his friends and fellow Guardsmen as “the glue that brought them all together”, Tyler was a brilliant young man with a promising future who was loved by many.
Continuing his service in the National Guard throughout his college career, Tyler graduated from Western Illinois University in 2018 with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in homeland security. Upon graduation, Tyler was one of the few applicants accepted into the San Jose Police Academy in California. Tyler was realizing his dream of a full-time career in law enforcement.
Tragically and mysteriously on September 15, 2018, Tyler lost his life while in Galesburg, Illinois. As his parents, family and friends continue to search for answers, they honor Tyler’s life through the Tyler “Smitty” Smith Memorial Fund.
Tyler’s family will have the opportunity to recommend grants from the fund for charitable purposes that would honor his memory. The Tyler “Smitty” Smith Memorial Fund will provide a legacy of giving back to the causes that Tyler loved, annually, forever.
If you would like to contribute to the fund, click on the "Give Now" button below. Checks can be mailed to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation, P.O. Box 74, Rochelle, IL 61068, with “Tyler Smith Fund” on the memo line. For questions or more information, contact the RACF Executive Director at (815) 561-3600.