Concert to Honor Kenneth Smith, M.D., Pioneering Neurosurgeon at SLU, Is September 20

A memorial concert to honor the life of Kenneth Smith, M.D., pioneering neurosurgeon at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, at the Sheldon Concert Hall. Smith died May 21, 2024. 

Smith was passionate about classical music and hosted recitals and chamber concerts in his home. He also served on the board of the Sheldon. 

He established the Department of Neurosurgery at Saint Louis University in 1966 and headed the department until 2002. Smith continued his surgical practice until his retirement in 2004 and volunteered at various medical clinics, in the city, in rural areas and in Africa.

Over his career he taught as a professor of neurosurgery, published numerous research papers, and trained more than 40 residents. He held leadership roles in organizations including as President of The Society of Neurological Surgeons (1995-96), President of the Society of University Neurosurgeons (1986), and served there as Historian until his death. He was President of the St. Louis Metropolitan Medical Society.

In 2002, he established the KRSmith Endowed Chair in Neurosurgery at Saint Louis University.

Smith is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marjorie; six children; and 12 grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his daughter, Joanne Clark. 

The concert is free and non-ticketed.