The State of Alabama Executed My Husband | Sojourners

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The image shows six people holding up the sign language for “I love you”

Kenny Smith’s wife Deanna (center) and family sign “I love you” in January after Smith became the world’s first inmate executed by nitrogen suffocation at Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, Ala. / Photo by Lee Hedgepeth / Tread

The State of Alabama Executed My Husband

The widow of Kenneth Eugene Smith spoke with Sojourners assistant editor Josina Guess.
May 2024

WE WERE MARRIED for two years. He was full of love, compassion, didn’t hold grudges or anything like that, quick to forgive, just an amazing man. Loved his family, not just us here, but his family there at Holman [Correctional Facility]. He’s not a monster. Kibby was my nickname for him: “Kenny” and my “hubby” mushed together. This doll I am holding became Kibby Bear. It’s made from his pants. One of the guys [on death row] made it and dyed it green because that’s my favorite color. It’s got a lock of Kenny’s hair in it. It helps me feel close to him.

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Deanna Smith

Deanna Smith is the widow of Kenneth Eugene Smith, executed by the state of Alabama in January 2024. 

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