“Your smile will forever shine in our hearts.”

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Steven Tyler Smartt, lovingly known as Tyler, age 26, of Madison, Alabama, on Monday, July 20, 2026.

Born on July 10, 2000, in Madison, Alabama, Tyler was raised in the community he always considered home. He graduated from James Clemens High School in 2018 and earned his degree from the University of South Alabama in 2022. After college, he lived in Auburn, Alabama, for three years while working in IT Systems before returning to Madison in 2025 to work as an Escalation Engineer, a career that reflected his gift for solving problems and helping others.

To know Tyler was to know kindness. His smile was constant, genuine, and contagious, and he always chose to see the good in people and in every situation. He never spoke an unkind word about anyone. His gentle spirit, compassionate heart, and quiet optimism left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tyler loved technology and enjoyed repairing computers and small electronics. His passion led to a career where he used his talents to solve problems and help others. Whether at work or at home, he approached every challenge with patience, curiosity, and a genuine desire to help.

More than anything else, Tyler loved his family. He treasured each one of them, but everyone who knew Tyler knew how deeply he loved his mom. The bond they shared was unmistakable. He also shared a special closeness with his brother, Jackson. Tyler’s greatest joy was found not in what he accomplished, but in the people he loved.

Tyler was also a proud member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity, where he formed lasting friendships and shared many treasured memories.

He is survived by his loving mother, Kimberly Barkley Smartt; his devoted brother, Jackson Smartt; his stepfather, Josh Fields; his grandparents, Wayne (“Booty”) and Elizabeth (“Libby”) Barkley of Madison, Alabama; his aunt and uncle, Robin and Mike Hodges; his cousins, Josh Blankenship and Jake Blankenship (Lymari); his special cousins, Madison, Jacobi, and Travis; his special friend, Ashley Moore; his beloved cat, Fanta; his faithful dog, Lacey; and many extended family members and many close friends whose lives were forever blessed by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Steve Smartt; his grandmother, Anita Smartt; his uncle, Brad Smartt; and his aunt, Connie Armstrong.

While we grieve Tyler’s passing, we find comfort in the love, memories, and lasting impact he leaves behind. His kindness, gentle spirit, and joyful outlook will continue to live on in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

The family would like to thank everyone for the love, prayers, kindness, and support shown during this difficult time.

Celebration of Tyler’s Life

Movement Church

1469 Browns Ferry Road

Madison, AL 35758

Saturday, August 1, 2026

2:00–4:00 PM

Forever Loved.

Forever Remembered.

Forever Missed.