John L. Smith, Jr.
MANSFIELD: John L. Smith, Jr. died Wednesday, April 17, 2013 after courageously and tirelessly battling Parkinson's disease for several years. He was 76.
This exceptionally good man left his earthly home and beloved family to be with his heavenly father, but not before leaving his mark on all who knew him. He was an intelligent, hardworking, thoughtful and principled man with great humility and integrity, but was probably most known for his tender heart and sweet disposition. Always ready with a cheerful greeting, a warm smile, and kind and encouraging words, he immediately endeared himself to all who came in contact with him.
He was a man of great and unshakable faith, who demonstrated his beliefs every day of his life. Dedicated to studying the Bible every morning, serving others both in and out of the church, and generously offering his unconditional love to his family, he truly was a man of God; the spiritual rock of his family. He was a leader in the truest sense of the word, always sacrificing for others, putting their needs above his own, all the while exhibiting a humble demeanor.
He was born August 17, 1936 in New Brighton, PA to John L. Smith, Sr. and Leone (Eberman) Smith and was graduated from Beaver (PA) High School. He studied engineering at Penn State University and transferred to Geneva College to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
A registered Professional Engineer with the State of Ohio since 1966, John worked as chief engineer with Empire Detroit Steel, retiring in 1994 as Division Director of Environmental Engineering from ARMCO Steel Company with 23 years of service.
He was a member of First Alliance Church and active with the building committee for the Cook Road building. He also served the congregation on the church board, as trustee and sang in the choir.
Upon retirement, John and his wife built their dream home at Apple Valley Lake, where for 25 years, they enjoyed entertaining family and friends. He loved fishing, and the atmosphere there where he found serenity and solitude to seek God's will for his family and himself. John strove to lead his family in a fashion that brought glory to God.
He is survived by his wife Jean Smith; their children J. Neal (Jodi) Smith of Overland Park, KS, Jill E. (Dr. Jay) Guth of Mansfield, and Holly B. Sanders of Mount Vernon; ten grandchildren; two great grandchildren; a brother Richard (Zelda) Smith of New Brighton, PA; a brother-in-law Jonathan "Jeep" (Louise) Bloom of Ft. Lauderdale, FL and a sister-in-law Joan Gridley of Lancaster, PA.
The Smith family will receive friends Sunday, April 21, 2013 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. A worship service, giving glory to God for the life of John Smith will be held Monday at 11 a.m. in First Alliance Church, 291 West Cook Road, Mansfield. Pastors Jim Cheatham and Dr. Steven Burggraf will officiate. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions to American Cancer Society may be made at the funeral home.
Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smith family, and private condolences may be made to them online at:www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
My sincere sympathy to Jill and all the family for the passing of John, the father. I just read about this happening, too late to make my presence known.
. . . hoping time will bring you all comfort and peace that he is no longer in misery.
Sincerely, Marita Boughton
Marita Boughton
April 23, 2013
Jean and family,
So sorry to hear about John. What a kind, Christian man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Isn't it wonderful to know you will see him again.
Bill and Becky Banks
April 21, 2013
My most sincere sympathies to the John Smith Jr family. During my years of attending First Alliance Church he and Jean and their kids were very welcoming and nurturing to the young people of the church. The entire family made an indelible impression of what a Christ-like family should be. This comes from Spirit-filled parents like John and Jean leading the family down the right path. Jean, Neal, Jill, and Holly, what a blessing to know that your husband/father is rejoicing with his Saviour. My prayers are with you during this time of loss. In Christ,
Cheri Gottfried
April 21, 2013
Jean,Neil,Jill and Holly I'm sorry to read of John's passing. You were great neighbors. Our prayers are with you. Helen,Carol Fisher and Lynn Wilson.
Helen Fisher
April 20, 2013
How well we remember John and his Christ like spirit. We have fond memories of our time together at First Alliance. We know he will be greatly missed, but praise God, you know that he is with his Lord
Charles & Ann Holmes
April 20, 2013
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Funeral services provided by:
Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel2553 Lexington Avenue P.O. Box 3085, Mansfield, OH 44904-1423
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more