About
Jack Smith Obituary
Jack L. Smith, 81, of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2025. He was born on August 24, 1944, in Syracuse, New York, to Arthur and Margaret Smith.
Jack grew up in Syracuse and graduated from Onondaga Valley Academy in 1962. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Lowell Technological Institute in 1966 and later received a master’s degree from the University of Utah in 1975.
From 1966 to 1978, Jack proudly served in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Major. He served during the Vietnam era and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, and the Air Force Longevity Service Award. His dedication to service and his country remained a defining part of his life.
On October 15, 1966, Jack married the love of his life, Patricia Ann Cunningham, in Lowell, Massachusetts. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage filled with commitment and support for one another.
Following his military career, Jack served as Clerk of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court from 1982 to 1991. He later embraced his passion for horticulture, working at the Purple Sage Garden Center from 1995 to 2007 and at Jericho Nursery from 2007 until 2023. Jack was known for his strong work ethic, sharp mind, and warm presence.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Margaret Smith, and his sister, Susan Kirste. He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia; his daughter, Colleen Hope (Douglas) of Glasgow, KY; his sons, Matthew Smith of Lehigh Acres, FL, and Andrew Smith of Glasgow, KY; his sister, Jill Mortensen of Wells, Maine; his brother-in-law, Michael Cunningham (Gail) of Brewster, MA; his grandchildren, Margaret (Dylan) Baermann and Ryan Smith; and his great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Luna, Stella, and Jack.
His family extends their deepest gratitude to the nursing staff at Legacy Health Care and the caregivers at Casa Contenta for their compassionate care and support during Jack’s time in hospice.
Jack will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2400 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124
People and places connected with Jack
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Jack Smith
Make a Donation
in Jack Smith's name
How to support Jack's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Jack Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
