Olen Roy Smythers , age 79 of Dublin passed away Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at the Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Born January 3, 1943 in Allisonia he was the son of the late Trent Roy Smythers & Alta Ellen Alexander Smythers. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Freda Watson Beamer.

Second only to his great love for his family, Olen had a love for music that was evident any time you were with him.  If he wasn't playing his mandolin and singing bluegrass songs, he was talking about memories of friends and family he had played with, places they had been and songs that were special to him.  His passion could be seen when you listened to and watched him do what he loved. He enjoyed music with his whole body, swaying to the rhythm, leaning into each and every word, eyes closed as though each word was a reverent offering.  Music brought him joy and listening to and watching him brought joy to his family and friends.

Olen is survived by his

Wife – Sharon Gae Thompson Smythers – Dublin

Children – Melissa Ann Smythers – Dublin, Charles Derrick (Michelle) Smythers – Allisonia, Pamela Denise (Gary) Farlow – Pulaski

Grandchildren – Melanie Byrd, Cody (Lindsey) Smythers, Amber Manuel, Kenneth Smythers, Makayla Byrd, Dillon Kegley

Great Grandchildren – Raelyn Crowder, Jaxon Smythers, Myla Crowder

Brothers – Daris Smythers – Allisonia, Wendell Smythers – Allisonia, Eugene Smythers – Dugspur

Many nieces and nephews

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM – Saturday, February 19, 2022 at the Bower Funeral Home-Chapel, Pulaski with Pastor Kelly Howlett officiating. Interment will follow at the Farris Cemetery, Allisonia.

The family will receive friends between 5:00 – 7:00 PM – Friday evening February 18, 2022 at the Funeral Home. To sign Olen's online guestbook, visit www.bowerfuneralhome.com - Bower Funeral Homes, Pulaski is handling the arrangements for the family.