Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

John Smart Obituary

John (Jack) A. Smart, 92, of Lighthouse Point, FL one of "The Greatest Generation", passed away to Heaven on December 9, 2014 at Hospice by the Sea Care Center in Boca Raton, FL surrounded by his family. Jack was born January 10, 1922 in Haydenville, OH. He graduated from Sciotoville High School, Portsmouth, Oh in 1940. Jack enlisted in the US Navy in 1942 and served in active combat in WWII as a Naval Aviator in AG-20 aboard the USS Enterprise CV-6, the most decorated ship of WWII, and the USS Lexington CV-16, the "Blue Ghost". He went to work for General Motors in 1947 in Columbus, Ohio. On March 16, 1951 he married Nancy Bradfield of West Jefferson, OH where they lived with their 5 children until 1964. Jack accepted a transfer as Gen. Superintendent at the plant in Elyria, Ohio from where he retired in 1984. Jack and Nancy then moved to Lighthouse Point, Fl where he lived until his passing. He was devoted to his wife, his family, his friends and his country. Jack never knew a stranger and had many memorable sayings. He had a smile and laugh that could light up a room and a sense of humor beyond compare. He loved attending Navy reunions and Tailhook conventions. He traveled the world with Nancy, rode a motorcycle until he was 81, and lived his life to the fullest...in fact, he wore out his "suitcase". Jack is survived by his wife, Nancy (Bradfield), his 5 children Laura Smart (Bob Crowley), Leslie (Bob) Graor, Lynda (Bob) Chapman, Lysbeth Smart, John (Michele) Smart, beloved grandchildren Zachary Edwards, Sarah, Jared and Jacob Smart, his special sister-in-law Becky Bradfield, nieces & nephews Peggy Smart Ginn, Megan Bradfield Pearson, N.D. Smart II, and Robert L. Bradfield II and long-time devoted friend, Clint Bonner. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dow and Laurel (Pollock) Smart, brother Norman Dow Smart and wonderful in-laws. A celebration of his life will take place at his home in Lighthouse Point, FL on his 93rd birthday, January 10, 2015 and will include an honor guard. A celebration will take place in Ohio also (date to be determined). Thank you to the many loving friends who have supported Jack and his family with prayers and thoughts.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Las Cruces Sun-News on Dec. 21, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for John Smart

18 Entries

Lynda Chapman

December 5, 2020

Thank you all for your kind words. To this day when I read these, my heart is comforted. We miss Dad immensely. ❤ Coming on 6 years gone!

December 23, 2014

I worked in Elyria with Me Smarts daughter Lysabeth, good man good family my prayers to you all. Bubba

Joanna Cooper

December 20, 2014

I had the honor of meeting Mr and Mrs Jack Smart very briefly this past fall. As a person who observes closely family dynamics had the joy of seeing a couple so much in love after these years . I also saw them encircled by loving family and devoted friends. It is a blessing to experience how people come together . Mr Smart was exceptionally strong and determined , even ill he was organized and directed his family. I pray that at this time now and forever, Our Lord will encircle all with comfort and healing.

Lysbeth Smart

December 19, 2014

Boy Dad, you were a true War Hero for sure. These wonderful people are writing such great memories of what you did in WW11. I know I didn't ask you much about your battles in the war, but from reading them on your memorial post,you sure we're a true hero. Of course I already knew that. I miss you so so much dad. I look up into the heavens everyday and talk to you and cry my heart out for you. I know I will see you again in the Glories of Heaven someday. I love you Dad. Lysbeth

United States Navy aircraft carrier Lexington explodes on 8 May 1942, several hours after being damaged by a Japanese carrier air attack.

Don Kelly

December 18, 2014

I am sorry for your loss and you should know that your father was an American hero. The ship he served on was part of the Battle of Corral Reef, which was a turning point battle against the Japanese during WWII. It was the first battle where the Japanese were turn away.

Paul Jones

December 17, 2014

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Rebecca Dukes

December 16, 2014

Dear Laura and Bob, I know you gave so much of yourselves to your dad these past few years. My father was in the Naval Reserves shortly after the Korean conflict. I used to play with his sailor hat because I thought it was so cool! Keep the good memories close to your heart always. We are thinking of you!

Pam Rossi

December 16, 2014

Dear Laura & Family - - what an incredible legacy your Dad left in you: with your vibrant, loving, caring ways. All the best during this difficult time to you and your family & friends.

December 15, 2014

Laura, I am so sorry for your loss! What a fine man your dad certainly was! Bless you! I know you will miss him!

UAW Local 969 Retiree Chapter

December 15, 2014

UAW Local 969 Retiree Chapter sends our deepest sympathy at the passing of John. We will keep your family in our prayers

Herb USMC

December 14, 2014

ONE of "THE"

Herb USMC

December 14, 2014

USS Enterprize CV6-- USS Lexington CV16

Herb USMC

December 14, 2014

Herb USMC

December 14, 2014

Herb Guyer-Sharfenaker USMC

December 14, 2014

God Bless/RIP,to ALL who served in WWII. The USA would NOT be as it is today,"Fair winds and following seas".Thank YOU for your service in Navy Aviation,Mr.Smart... And Semper Fi SIR.

December 14, 2014

May the God of all comfort be with your family at this time.
Joan W. Florida.

Lysbeth Smart

December 13, 2014

Until we meet again dad. Love your daughter Lysbeth

John Mahilo

December 13, 2014

My dad worked at the Elyria GM plant during Jack's time there, retiring in 1978. Dad spoke often and highly about Jack. That was a great generation of workers and Jack certainly was one of them.

Showing 1 - 18 of 18 results