Trudy Gail Kahn Smith

Trudy G. Kahn Smith passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of August 2, 2026. After a multi-year, long and tough journey with Alzheimer’s, Trudy is now enjoying her best life on the other side, restored to full health and reunited with Ray and many loved ones.

Trudy was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, on July 8,1949, to her parents, James and Erma Kahn. Trudy lived most of her life in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she graduated from Istrouma High School and later became a Licensed Cosmetologist. Trudy married her husband Ray “Big Head” Smith on July 22, 1972. Together they lived a full life, working day in and day out, side by side as they owned and operated their well-known Baton Rouge staple, the Hawk’s Nest Restaurant and Bar, for over 50 years. Known for her unforgettable wit and straight forwardness, Trudy was a true pistol. She was funny, real, unfiltered and entertaining to be with. You were guaranteed a laugh in the company of Trudy! You never questioned where you stood with her.

Trudy’s family was her entire world! If she wasn’t at the Hawk’s Nest or cutting hair, you would find her celebrating family birthdays, spoiling her grandchildren, shopping with her daughter, traveling with her sister, doting on her nieces, Jennifer and Tracey, drinking and laughing with friends or “cruising the coast’ with Ray. Trudy was a beach lover, always up for a party, festival or any adventure. She had a green thumb, enjoyed time outside, was artsy and loved to tinker and paint; she loved classic cars, good music, fun people, car races and cigarette boat rides. Trudy never missed a dance recital or ballgame for either of her children and would never pass up a chance to be with the two of them or her grandchildren. She is deeply loved, sorely missed and forever remembered.

Trudy is preceded in death by her husband, Ray “Bighead” Smith; and parents, James and Erma Kahn.

She leaves behind her siblings, Mary Kahn Efferson (Richard) and JR Kahn (Jane); two beloved children, Kyle Ray Smith (Chela) and Jaime Smith Sims (Jeff); four grandchildren, Austin Sims, Bryce Sims, Luke Smith and Paige Smith; as well as her cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and many extended family.

Pallbearers will include Kyle Smith, Jeff Sims, Austin Sims, Bryce Sims, Luke Smith, and Jackson Walker.

Our family would like to thank the staff at The Claiborne and Clarity Hospice for their care for Trudy during her time with them.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Trudy’s life on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Resthaven Funeral Home, from 5:00-7:00 PM. Visitation will resume on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at St. George Catholic Church beginning at 9:30 AM until Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Burial to follow at St. George Catholic Church Cemetery.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.