Ree Drummond, widely known as the Pioneer Woman, a celebrated chef, cookbook author, and Food Network star, has experienced both professional triumphs and personal sorrows in recent years. While her career flourished from her blog to a successful media and retail empire, Drummond and her family faced a significant loss with the passing of her older brother, Michael Smith.
This article explores the details surrounding the death of Ree Drummond’s brother, Michael Smith, and the heartfelt tributes that followed.
Ree Drummond and her brother Michael Smith as children, sitting on a car hood, Ree embracing Michael
Alt text: Childhood photograph of Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond affectionately hugging her brother Michael Smith while seated on a car.
The Untimely Death of Michael Smith, Pioneer Woman’s Brother
Michael Drummond Smith, the older brother of Ree Drummond, sadly passed away on October 30, 2021, at the age of 54. While the specific cause of death was not publicly disclosed, a close friend’s social media tribute indicated that his passing was quick and without suffering, offering a measure of solace to those grieving.
News of Michael’s death first emerged through social media tributes from friends and family. Dan Dalton, a friend of Michael’s, shared an early online memorial. Ree Drummond’s sister, Betsy, also acknowledged the loss in an Instagram post on November 2nd. Shortly after, Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, publicly mourned her brother’s death on Facebook, sharing her grief with her followers and fans.
Pioneer Woman’s Tribute to Her Brother Michael Smith
In the days following Michael’s passing, Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, shared a moving statement on social media reflecting on the profound impact her brother had on her life.
Black and white portrait of young Ree Drummond and her brother Michael Smith in a go-cart, Michael reaching towards Ree's face
Alt text: Nostalgic photo of Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, as a child in a cart with her brother Michael Smith, capturing a tender sibling moment.
“Michael Smith, you were everything,” Ree Drummond wrote in her heartfelt message. She expressed the difficulty of encapsulating the life of someone as remarkable as her brother, her first friend and constant companion. Ree shared her gratitude for over five decades of cherished memories and photographs. Acknowledging the deep bond within her family, she asked for prayers for her parents, recognizing their “boundless” devotion to Michael and the acute pain of their loss.
Remembering Michael Smith: Brother of the Pioneer Woman
Michael Smith was more than just the brother of the Pioneer Woman; he was a cherished individual in his own right. Growing up in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, alongside Ree and their two other siblings, Michael was known for his special nature and his strong connection to his local community.
He held a particular fondness for first responders in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, becoming a familiar and beloved figure within those circles. Following the news of his death, the Washington County Emergency Management Agency honored Michael as a “legend and icon,” emphasizing that he would be profoundly missed and forever remembered. The Bartlesville Professional Firefighters Union echoed this sentiment, recognizing Michael as “one of a kind” and expressing their deep sense of loss.
Headshot of Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, smiling warmly
Alt text: Close-up portrait of Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, radiating a friendly smile and approachable demeanor.
For fans of Ree Drummond, Michael was also a familiar face, having appeared on her Food Network show, The Pioneer Woman, and frequently mentioned in her popular blog. His presence extended beyond his local community to those who followed Ree’s career. Ree’s younger sister, Betsy, also shared a touching tribute on Instagram, describing Michael as “sweet and wonderful” and acknowledging the many lives he touched with his “caring, fun and independent spirit.” She concluded her message with a loving farewell, “Love you forever, Mikey.”
The passing of Michael Smith is a poignant reminder of the personal lives behind public figures like the Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond. His life, though lived outside the spotlight, left a lasting impact on his family and community, and his memory is clearly cherished by all who knew him.
