The Drummond family and fans of the popular Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond mourned the loss of Michael Smith, Ree’s older brother, who passed away at the age of 54. News of his death emerged through heartfelt social media messages from family and friends, with Ree Drummond herself sharing a touching tribute on her Facebook account on Wednesday.
In her poignant Facebook post, Ree Drummond, the celebrated Pioneer Woman star and cookbook author, conveyed the deep sorrow felt by her family. “It isn’t possible to sum up the life of someone as perfectly wonderful as my brother Michael, so right now I won’t try,” she wrote, highlighting the profound impact Michael had on her life. “He was seventeen months older than me, my first friend and buddy, and I’m so grateful for over 50 years of photos and memories.” Her words painted a picture of a lifelong bond and cherished memories.
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Accompanying her tribute, Ree shared a collection of photographs, offering glimpses into their shared history. Among them were endearing childhood snapshots capturing the siblings’ early years, alongside a more recent picture of Michael as an adult. These images served as a visual testament to their enduring connection.
Drummond also requested prayers for her parents, emphasizing their unwavering devotion to Michael. “Please pray for my parents, whose devotion to Mike was boundless, and who will feel this loss most acutely,” she added, acknowledging the profound grief her parents would be experiencing. Concluding her message, she simply stated, “Michael Smith, you were everything,” encapsulating the immeasurable value he held in their lives.
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Betsey Smith, Ree and Michael’s sister, also paid tribute to her brother on social media, echoing the sentiments of loss and love. “We lost Michael, my sweet and wonderful brother, this last weekend,” Betsey shared in an Instagram post. “He was one of a kind, and he will be missed by so many people who loved him.” Her words underscored Michael’s unique personality and the wide circle of people who cherished him.
Betsey further reflected on Michael’s positive impact, saying, “I’m very thankful for his life, the connections he made and his caring, fun and independent spirit.” Her Instagram post included a heartwarming childhood photo of her and Michael, further illustrating their lifelong bond. “Love you forever, Mikey,” Betsey concluded.
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While Ree Drummond is known for her open and engaging personality, details about Michael Smith’s private life, including whether he had Down syndrome or other specific conditions, were not publicly emphasized beyond the mention of “developmental disabilities”. In her 2011 book, The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Wheels, Ree Drummond had previously written about Michael and mentioned that he had “developmental disabilities.” This detail provides some context to understanding Michael’s life, though specific diagnoses were not publicly shared, respecting his and his family’s privacy.
Despite these challenges, Michael Smith lived a full and impactful life, particularly within his hometown of Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Longtime friend Dan Dalton described Mikey, as he was known to friends, as a “Bartlesville icon” whose infectious smile left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Dalton, in a statement to KTUL, emphasized Michael’s widespread popularity and ability to connect with people. “[Mikey made a very big impression on everybody in Barlesville. He was liked by everybody. Everybody knew him,” Dalton recounted. “He met friends everywhere he went. He went to all the basketball games, all the football games, all the baseball games — not to really watch the games, but to connect with people.” This illustrates Michael’s vibrant social life and his role as a beloved community figure.
Dalton, who worked as an Ambulance Service administrator, and Michael shared a friendship spanning 40 years, since Michael was 14. Their bond highlighted Michael’s long-standing connection with the community and his passion for engaging with local services.
“[Michael] would routinely visit the ambulance station, the fire stations,” Dalton explained. “He’d help us wash cars, clean the ambulances, restock the ambulances, whatever he could do. … He had uniforms and hats from almost every station that he visited.” This active participation in community services showcased Michael’s eagerness to contribute and be involved.
Dalton fondly remembered their personal connection, “We went out to dinner several times, even went on trips together. He became a very close friend.” He further added, “Everybody he met was a friend. He knew their phone numbers, he kept contact with them almost every day. He had an amazing ability to remember people’s phone numbers.” These personal anecdotes paint a picture of a man who valued friendship and connection deeply.
While the specific cause of Michael Smith’s death was not disclosed, Dalton shared on social media that his friend “went fast and did not suffer,” offering some comfort to those grieving. “God has been very good to my favorite buddy,” Dalton wrote. “I know he is making lots of new friends in heaven.” These words provide a sense of peace and closure amidst the sadness of his passing.
Representatives for Ree Drummond did not immediately respond to requests for further comments, as the family grieves privately. Michael Smith’s legacy as a cherished brother and a beloved Bartlesville icon remains, remembered for his ability to connect with people and his indelible smile.
