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John Smith Obituary
John Ford Smith II, former teacher, Harlem Globetrotter, actor, Buffalo Soldier/civil war re-enactor and family man, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully, on January 2, 2010 while on vacation in Memphis, TN. John was the son of long-time teacher, historian, and political activist Senoma Smith and notable Negro Baseball League pitcher and executive director of the Arizona Civil Rights Commission, John Ford Smith. He was 62 years old and a life-long resident of Phoenix. John graduated from South Mountain High School in 1965 and attended Phoenix College before transferring to the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, WA. He received a B.A. in Elementary Education in 1969 and was inducted into the university's basketball Hall of Fame in 1992. After graduation, John was drafted by the Seattle Supersonics where he played through the exhibition season and finally in the Eastern League. Upon his return to Phoenix, his love of education and children led him to become a teacher. He taught Head Start, in elementary school and worked with youth programs at the Salvation Army and various city park and recreation programs until he was recruited by the World Famous Harlem Globetrotters in 1972. John joined the team and traveled the world playing basketball with them until 1980. After leaving the Globetrotters, he continued to play comedy basketball over the next four years with the Harlem Wizards and Meadowlark Lemon's Bucketeers. John was inducted into the Phoenix College Athletics Hall of Fame in May 2009. After retiring from basketball he pursued other interests: antique cars, horseback riding and 1830's to 1920's history. He included those "loves" with his interest in at-risk youth and, in 1991, joined a Buffalo Soldier's group whose purpose was to develop programs, provide civil war re-enactments, educational documentaries, and fund-rasiers for youth. He has numerous television, film, commercials, documentaries, live radio and television shows to his credit. John was most proud of being clean and sober for the past 26 years and devoted the remainder of his life to helping others overcome their addictions. John is survived by his wife, Laura; four children: Renieka, Tisha, Tosha, and John III; three step sons: Charlie, Bryan and Joseph III; a sister, Jackie; 13 grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends whose lives he touched. Family and friends are invited to attend the celebration of John's life on January 16, 2010 at Corona Ranch, 7611 South 29th Avenue, Laveen, AZ. Visitation from 11am to noon; celebration service immediately following from noon to 1pm and family and friends remembrance (Repast) from 1 to 3pm. Arrangements entrusted to East Lake Mortuary (602-253-4105).
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Memories and Condolences
for John Smith
Sponsored by JOE ALBANESE GEORGE LEMON KEN FRIEND JAMES JOHNSON TIM MARSHALL JACKIE JACKSON .
Darren Gadish
April 27, 2024
I´m 58 years old , when I was younger maybe the age of 15 years old . My Dad was selling his 1938 Chevy car in Tempe, Az . And John Smith came and looked at car and loved it and bought the car from my Dad . I remember him having to bend down to get through the door due to him being so tall .. amazing .. He had the car fixed up to show car status and remember him picking his son up at Arredondo elementary school in the car after it being fixed up and painted tan with Brown fenders. With chrome aftermarket rims .. never will forget .. [email protected]
Scott Diekema
March 24, 2024
I don´t know how it got in my brain, but Coach Smith was my basketball coach when I started playing basketball back in the 80´s. His son John was one of my friends and was on the team as well. This was in Tempe, AZ and he made me fall in love with basketball. I just want to say that my condolences to the family. I know that I moved and never had contact with the family, but i still remember. My condolences and apologize for not knowing. I just wanted to make this statement.
Sheila Brown- Lucey
October 28, 2022
John Smith was a substitute teacher for my class at Truman Middle School back in the late 60's. We all looked up to him (no pun intended) he would ask us to sing Motown Hits if we could, and of course we couldn't wait to do so. I saw a clip on TV and decided to look him up. Sorry for your loss family, he was an amazing man.
DONNA MARIE DIBRELL
February 15, 2022
Uncle/Cuz John, I was thinking about you. Much love to you and yours. I loved you. Remembering my childhood and the positive times.
Sharon Cooper
February 2, 2022
My memory is about Tosha Smith, a VERY LOVING WOMAN OF GOD, John's daughter!
Renieka Patterson
January 8, 2022
Daddy,, I'm missing U still.... It's 12yrs now.... I Luv U Old Man So much I would like to share with U and get ur perspective on.. NOTHING has been nor EVER will be the same without U but I see U in all of us and that fills my heart with joy knowing u live on through us.... I Luv U Daddy and I miss U so much words just can't express my feelings... Only God knows
Renieka
September 3, 2020
It's Thursday night, September 3, 2020. I woke up thinking about u Daddy ..... I am missing u so much it hurts U hv been gone for over 10yrs and it still feels like just yesterday u were at my house. I wish u were here so we could laugh and talk and I could here u share ur memories..... U left us so abruptly.....so many questions, and No Answers I'll never stop missing u Dad and I'll Luv u Always ♥♥♥♥
candyce c.
August 17, 2017
happy birthday Grandpa!!! I miss you sooo sooo much!!! You were taken away from us way to soon but i'm happy to know you are in such a better place. I wish you could have met your first great grandchild, he's amazing and he would have loved you just as much as I do. His name is Shane. I know you are some times with us when you decide to be funny and turn my lights on and off in my bathroom lol. Anyways, make sure the angels are continuing to keep us safe down here until we get to meet again. I love you so much!! love Candy Cane :)
"Little" John Smith as a Harlem Globetrotter
C Smith
April 8, 2017
Robert Munson
January 10, 2017
To the John F. Smith II family,
it was with real shock and sadness that I read of the passing of a man I know loved you very dearly. I did not have the chance to meet him often, mostly when he assisted me at Fort Verde State Historic Park. I remember him for both his superb knowledge, and portrayal of the Buffalo Soldiers in Arizona Territory. He was a truly dignified man with a ready smile and fun to talk to. He made a real impression on all those who saw him at Fort Verde. When he could not be there in person I often used photos of him to illustrate both the Buffalo Soldiers and as an example of how Living History should be done.
I offer my sincere condolences, and note I regard him as a man it was an honor to have known.
God bless you all.
Sincerely,
Bob Munson
formerly of Fort Verde
Jerome Crawford and Edward Horne 2 of your classmates
Edward Horne Jr
December 8, 2016
John you are truly missed. It was an honor to serve as your teammate on one of the best basketball squads in the history of the University of Puget Sound. We had 2 great years under Coach Zech from 1968-1970. He eventually won the NCAA Division II title in 1976. Always enjoyed visiting with you when you passed through Little Rock, AR with the Harlem Globetrotters while I was serving in the USAF.
Thanks to you and your family for being a great inspiration to so many young Black Americans during your career.
Rest in peace my friend you will always be my teammate!!
Tosha Smith
August 17, 2016
The reflection of my Dads life still lives on today through my brothers and sister and the legacy you live on Daddy in heaven miss you and love you so much.
Farrel Swope
January 5, 2016
I met him in 1992 at the Salvation Army he was reffing a basketball game. During a break he took the ball and rolled it off his shoulder and down his leg and flicked it of his foot and passed it to a kid. I said to myself wow who is this guy. We became friends he was a kind spirit and a great man who cared a great deal about people and kids. When someone like him dies the world gets a little smaller. I'll never forget you Johnny.
Robin Stephens
December 29, 2015
To John's family, I am so sorry for your loss. I am a childhood fan. I just found out about us losing him. He was an asset to the world. God bless him and be with you all.
A devoted fan
Robin
Bill (skipper) Coles
November 9, 2014
Sorry for your loss. He was my best friend in grade school. Played basketball for hours in his backyard. His mom always made us a sandwich. Rest in peace, God bless!
Linda Neville
January 7, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear this news.
I just found this tonite cause I googled john smiths name.
I met John in south phoenix where he boarded his beautiful painted horse...he taught me a few things about horses...and I saw him doin some fancy basketball moves for my son once it put a big smile on my sons face.
He knew my husband dave neville and friends don n martie.
Again so sorry for your loss n I know its tuff cause we lost dave
In nov.
I am glad I got to know john he was always happy n upbeat.
Chuck Hester
July 6, 2013
I met Johnny years ago at an old car dealership in downtown Scottsdale. He was a prince of a guy to say the least. Rest in Peace John,
Dolores Quema
January 31, 2013
So sorry for your loss. He was such an awsome person, I met him when I was in headstart and he would come to our school, he also atttended a few CIty council meeting with my Mom. Amazing people leave such a great impression that I will never forget. God Bless You.
Lydia Haro-Aldaco
July 10, 2012
I recently just found out of Johnny's passing. I met him when he worked for Rev. Brooks, he worked w/ my mom Miss Maria. I was one of those kids he mentored & he used to really push education & have us avoid drugs. He was a great inspiration I'm glad I got to know him & have an opportunity to have him scold me/us. My mom would always use “Johnny” as her threat to us, he truly cared for us little children at the center. God called on my brother to go home & we will meet again. My heart goes to the Smith's; you were truly blessed to have a father like him in your life God Bless you and your family.
May 4, 2012
We just found out about John's passing. We are truly sorry to hear that he is no longer here with us. However, we are sure he is in a better place. My husband and I had the opportunity to meet John in at our home in California (2001). He sat down and enjoyed a country meal with us and mutual friend. He was a great person. Zeb & Tricia (Las Vegas, NV)
Renieka Patterson
October 18, 2011
As John's oldest daughter, it has taken time for me to get over his passing. To those I may have fogotten to thank, I'd like to say Thank You All for your kindness,prayers and loving gestures. Remembering the good times, his laughter, and all he accomplished not just for his family/friends, but those in our community/state at large, is what fills my heart w/joy and peace. I will forever love and miss you Daddy... If anyone would like to contact me, you can e-mail me: [email protected]. Thanks again and Blessings to all... Renieka
Michael A Smith
May 18, 2011
To the Smith, My name is Rev Michael A Smith from Kennesaw, Ga. I met Johnny many years ago in Buenos Aires at the Sheraton hotel. He was playing with the Harlem Globe Trotters at the time. In this chance encounter, we talked of our origins. I mentioned that I had been born in Baltimore, Md. As I recall, memory may be bad, he mentioned that his father had moved from the Baltimore area to the Phoenix area many years ago. My father's name was Morris Smith. We thought that there might be a family relationship. We exchanged information but in the course of time it was lost. I am sure that John was too busy playing for the Globe Trotters and lost the information. Joe Albanese, if I am on the right track please contact his family for me. I can be reached at [email protected] or 787-306-4560. If there is no connection they can still contact me if they so desire.
My condolence to the Smith family in their lost.
Suzanne
April 9, 2011
To John III, I'm so sorry to hear of your father's passing. I know it has been some time now; I just found this online. I hope you are well and that your family is well. I'm truly sorry for your loss. It is quite the shock and quite the loss.
JOE ALBANESE
February 24, 2011
A YEAR HAS COME AND GONE AND LITTLE JOHN YOU ARE STILL SORELY MISSED, LORD , CONTINUE TO HEAR OUR PRAYERS AS WE PRAY FOR THE REPOSE OF JOHNS SOUL;LEST WE FORGET
Lydia Gutierrez
March 1, 2010
To the Smith Family My dearest condolences for the physical lost of Mr. Smith, But in the Spiritual realm my heart is filled with Joy to know Mr. Smith is seated at the side of Jesus and God the Father he travels through the Heavens so free he is where angels hail and praise God and Jesus. So he lives there for eternity. He has a Beautiful Daughter Tosha Smith whom I have the honor to call my sister in Christ Jesus and Co-Worker through her Fathers shines bright. I know that he set a foundation of God for many and filled many hearts with laughter, and through the extension of his hand to help others was the the of God. Mr Smith, Until we meet in Heaven hello and see you oneday.
Ken Friend
January 21, 2010
For the millions of comedy basketball fans around the world, we say....... Thank You & God Bless
JIE ALBANESE
January 21, 2010
to Little Johns family, i was road manager with the bucketeers and shooting star and was a roomate one tour with him. He was a great friend and I last saw him in July 1995 after I was in a very bad automobile accident . He visited and prayed for me while I was in recovery center in Phoenix. He was very proud of his work with youth and his Buffalo Soldiers work . He was truly an asset to his community and race.I am proud to have been his friend and I shall remember him in my prayers .words can not express my grief.My condolences to your family ! I have sent emails to some of his teammates and he is missed by all of them . JOE ALBANESE TUCSON AZ.
Rochelle Hawthorne
January 20, 2010
To Johnny's family and those who were nearest to him, I know the pain and I truly feel sorry for your lost. I knew Johnny from childhood and I wish you and your family comfort at this time of sorrow.
Joseph & Lisa Cannon
January 18, 2010
May God bless and strengthen "The Family". May Johnny's memories bring happiness, smiles, comfort and warm thoughts. May his life style be a encouraging inspiration to all.
LeeDell Bunton, Sr.
January 15, 2010
I've known Johnny since our early days at Percy L. Julian School, over the years we remained friends. After becoming adults, Johnny, Tyrone, George, and myself would hunt small game together. We would often refer to Johnny as "John Wayne", and he loved it because he really believed he was a great marksman, we had great times and lots of fun together. Johnny was loved and will be missed. To his family, know that weeping endures for only and a night, and joy will come in the morning. God bless and keep you doing this time.
Joanna Whitehead
January 14, 2010
Johnny was a good friend of me and my husband, he was so much fun and a joy to be around. He will be missed by a lot of people. Our deepest sympathy and condolences. Ernie and Joanna Whitehead.
January 14, 2010
I am saddened to learn of John's death. He was at SRP when I worked there in the 80's, and I remember him being such a kind and gentle man. It was such a pleasure being around him. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Yolanda Gallagher
January 14, 2010
Dear Laura,
My deepest sympathy goes to you and and the family. May god wrap his arms around you to help you thru all of this. My prayers are with you.
Sandy Traylor
January 14, 2010
As a highschool classmate of Johnny's I was sorry to hear of his passing. Johnny was always kind and compassionate person,great attitude as well as a good sense of humor. I lost track of almost all of the class of 65 as we all pursued our different lives and it's sad that it takes something like this to rekindle the memories. my thoughts and prayers are with Johnny's family at this time of sorrow.
May God Bless
Go Rebels!
Sandy Traylor
Mesa Ariz
Gleneley Withey-Mollett
January 14, 2010
For the family past and present, Johnny was an extrodinary man and
friend. His life will be remembered many fond memories both near and far. To loose his presence is painful, but the memories we all
have are comforting as they are always with us.
Gleneley Withey Mollett
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