Jan Elllis Smith

Jan was born in his grandfather's hospital in Corbin, Kentucky. When he was in grade school, his family moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, after it was determined that warm weather offered the best chance of curing his Legg-Perthes disease, which it did. From junior high on, he thrived, taking on Student Council and leadership roles throughout school. Those interests carried forward at the University of Florida, where he was active in his Phi Delta Theta fraternity, student government, and Florida Blue Key.

His first job, in 1963, was as a staffer for Rep. Paul Rogers in Washington, D.C. He took his bride, the former Harriat Bassett, there, where together they experienced the many historical events of that year. Through recommendations from friends, he decided to come to Bradenton in 1964, where he began to build a wonderful life, first in the general insurance business and later through his own investment company.

As a young man, Jan joined others in the Jaycees and went on to become active in the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, Red Cross, United Way, and Conquistadores. In time, his involvement expanded to the State Chamber, and he served as a board member of the U.S. Chamber.

Education was of great interest to him. He served as a board member and chairman of what was then Manatee Community College, and later with USF in Sarasota and the USF board in Tampa. They called him a Bull-Gator.

Jan was able to enjoy the mountains of western North Carolina and cherished many friends there. A travel business enabled him to visit many parts of the world.

Jan is survived by his wife of 62 years, Harriat, and his son Benjamin of Alpharetta, Georgia, who blessed them with three grandchildren: Sarah, Benjamin, and Jacob. Sadly, Jan was predeceased by his daughter Lauren.

Raised a Baptist, Jan became Presbyterian and served as an elder at Palma Sola Presbyterian Church. In more recent years, he attended and supported Christ Episcopal Church in Bradenton.

We will gather to share remembrances of Jan on Saturday, April 18th at 11:00 a.m. at Brown & Sons Funeral Home, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209.

The family suggests any memorials be directed to Tidewell Hospice, 2504 34th Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205, or the Manatee Community Foundation, 2820 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205.