Derek Benson Smith, 42, of Elkton, Maryland, passed away on Friday, August 7, 2026.

Born in Elkton, Maryland, on August 16, 1983, Derek was the son of Brenda White Jones (Stepfather Doug Jones) and the late Clarence Benson Smith.

Derek was the dedicated and hardworking owner and operator of Our Little Country Store in Elkton. Outside of his business, he also enjoyed working in construction, especially building and working on bridges. Derek was a huge Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved spending time outdoors, whether camping, fishing, or boating. A true jack-of-all-trades, he had a special talent for fixing just about anything put in front of him. More than anything, Derek loved spending time with his family and friends. His children held an especially important place in his heart and meant the world to him.

Derek is survived by his children, Kenslea Smith of Dundalk, Maryland, and Jaxon Smith of Elkton, Maryland; his sister, Amanda Butler, niece, Topsy of Naples, FL; Stepsisters Kaitlyn Jones (nephew Eli) and Christie Jones (nephew Landon) Elkton, MD; his grandmothers, Joy Smith and Ethel White; his partner of the last six years, Andrea Hodge; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends.

In addition to his father, Derek was preceded in death by his brother, Christopher Butler.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at the Jones residence, 154 Dogwood Road, Elkton, Maryland 21921.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Maryland Recovery, 21 West Courtland Street, Bel Air, Maryland 21014.