Jesse Smith Obituary
Although our hearts are broken, we can't stop telling stories about his antics and orneriness. Everyone has a 'Jesse' story. Among those that will miss him immeasurably are his parents and stepparents (Maxine, Kenny, Charlie and Vicky), daughter (Payton), siblings, and many nieces and nephews. The list of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends is just as long.
The guy was wicked smart and loved a one liner. No occasion was off limits for a well-timed zinger. If you mustered a worthy response, he'd dip his chin, raise his eyebrows and crack a little grin before hitting you with another one.
Jesse didn't take life too seriously. However, there were several topics he would not waiver on: shirts are optional, cutoff jeans over swim trunks and socks go with sandals. Some of his favorite activities included boating, camping, building a much larger than necessary fire, fishing, grilling, eating (especially Mom's cooking), watching football and enjoying the company of his people. There was never a dull moment with JD around.
Jesse earned 20+ years as a Union Journeyman Carpenter. He was proud of that. His work was part of who he was. Rumor has it that his co-workers dubbed him "The Lippy Hippie" and that sounds spot on. Many of us have pieces of furniture in our homes that he custom made or outbuildings on our properties that he built. He enjoyed helping folks and did it frequently.
He was also a jack-of-all-trades that could fix a carburetor, build a potato gun, move an entire living room of furniture to the backyard for a party and negotiate the best price on anything. Jesse was a talented, intelligent, witty and vibrant individual.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life Saturday, January 24, 2026 from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. at Reynolds Lodge, Lake Shawnee, 3315 SE Tinman Cir, Topeka, KS 66605. **Jesse's family would love for you to send your photos, videos and music playlist suggestions to [email protected] for inclusion at the COL.**
Upcoming Services
Celebration of Life
Saturday, January 24, 2026
3:00 - 6:00 pm
Reynold's Lodge, Lake Shawnee
Celebration of Life for Jesse Daniel Smith.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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