John Paul Smith, 78, previously of Simpson, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in his home in Suffolk, Virginia, surrounded by family, after a long, courageous nearly ten-year battle with dementia. He was born on January 27, 1947 in Gloversville, New York; and lived a life defined by faith, family, service, and a great love for learning—and sports.
John was a devoted husband to his wife, Sarah, whom he married in 1980, and a proud father to his five children: James; Jeff (Nicole); Paula (Chris); Jonathan (Mandy); and Justin (Catherine). One of his greatest joys was his grandchildren: Alexis, Joshua, Brianna (Josh), Madison, Logan, Lydia, Levi, Luke, Elliott, and Bennett, with one more grandchild eagerly anticipated this summer. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Ryker and Myla.
He was a cherished brother to Jean, Bill, Shirley, Bobby, and Mark. John was preceded in death by his parents, Chauncey Allen and Grace Thompson Smith, as well as a brother, James Barry Smith.
John's life of service began early, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and demonstrating a commitment to leadership and service that continued throughout his life. He was a 1965 graduate of R.J. Reynolds High School in Winston Salem, NC and then earned his undergraduate degree and Master's Degree from Appalachian State University. He later obtained his school administration degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, NC —laying the foundation for a remarkable career in education.
John served 38 years in public education, a calling he deeply loved. He spent many years coaching sports and mentoring students and educators alike, ultimately retiring as Principal of Northside High School in Pinetown, NC. In recognition of his leadership and dedication, he was honored as the North Carolina Principal of the Year in 2007. His influence reached far beyond the classroom, and he took great pride in shaping both academic programs and young lives.
After retirement, he remained in the classroom by teaching math at Miller-Motte College and as a professor at the East Carolina School of Education.
A man of deep and active faith, John was a longtime member of Salem United Methodist Church in Simpson, North Carolina. He especially loved teaching the Adult Sunday School class and was instrumental in establishing the church's food pantry. He also served as a Children's Church Director for more than 22 years at 15th Street Church of God in Washington, NC - where he especially enjoyed dressing up in fun costumes and showing off a few magic tricks. John was also a frequent volunteer at the Greenville Homeless Shelter, quietly giving his time and heart to those in need.
An avid sports fan, John could almost always be found cheering on the Washington Redskins, Atlanta Braves, and Duke Basketball - usually with enthusiastic commentary. He was known as a computer whiz and enjoyed keeping up with the latest technology, often serving as the family's go-to problem solver. He also had a lifelong love for animals and shared his home with many beloved pets over the years.
Above all, John was a true gentleman. He was committed to the Lord wholeheartedly, loved his family deeply, and lived his faith through service to others. His kindness, wisdom, humor, and steady presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A service to celebrate his life will be planned for a future date in 2026 at Salem United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Salem United Methodist Church Food Pantry; PO Box 218, Simpson, NC 27879.
John was a devoted husband to his wife, Sarah, whom he married in 1980, and a proud father to his five children: James; Jeff (Nicole); Paula (Chris); Jonathan (Mandy); and Justin (Catherine). One of his greatest joys was his grandchildren: Alexis, Joshua, Brianna (Josh), Madison, Logan, Lydia, Levi, Luke, Elliott, and Bennett, with one more grandchild eagerly anticipated this summer. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Ryker and Myla.
He was a cherished brother to Jean, Bill, Shirley, Bobby, and Mark. John was preceded in death by his parents, Chauncey Allen and Grace Thompson Smith, as well as a brother, James Barry Smith.
John's life of service began early, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and demonstrating a commitment to leadership and service that continued throughout his life. He was a 1965 graduate of R.J. Reynolds High School in Winston Salem, NC and then earned his undergraduate degree and Master's Degree from Appalachian State University. He later obtained his school administration degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, NC —laying the foundation for a remarkable career in education.
John served 38 years in public education, a calling he deeply loved. He spent many years coaching sports and mentoring students and educators alike, ultimately retiring as Principal of Northside High School in Pinetown, NC. In recognition of his leadership and dedication, he was honored as the North Carolina Principal of the Year in 2007. His influence reached far beyond the classroom, and he took great pride in shaping both academic programs and young lives.
After retirement, he remained in the classroom by teaching math at Miller-Motte College and as a professor at the East Carolina School of Education.
A man of deep and active faith, John was a longtime member of Salem United Methodist Church in Simpson, North Carolina. He especially loved teaching the Adult Sunday School class and was instrumental in establishing the church's food pantry. He also served as a Children's Church Director for more than 22 years at 15th Street Church of God in Washington, NC - where he especially enjoyed dressing up in fun costumes and showing off a few magic tricks. John was also a frequent volunteer at the Greenville Homeless Shelter, quietly giving his time and heart to those in need.
An avid sports fan, John could almost always be found cheering on the Washington Redskins, Atlanta Braves, and Duke Basketball - usually with enthusiastic commentary. He was known as a computer whiz and enjoyed keeping up with the latest technology, often serving as the family's go-to problem solver. He also had a lifelong love for animals and shared his home with many beloved pets over the years.
Above all, John was a true gentleman. He was committed to the Lord wholeheartedly, loved his family deeply, and lived his faith through service to others. His kindness, wisdom, humor, and steady presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A service to celebrate his life will be planned for a future date in 2026 at Salem United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Salem United Methodist Church Food Pantry; PO Box 218, Simpson, NC 27879.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of John Paul Smith, please visit our flower store.
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