John R. Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John R. Smith. Born in South Bend, Indiana on July 25, 1952, John R. Smith lived a life full of service and passion, leaving an indelible impression on everyone he met. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well." John R. Smith embodied these words in every facet of his life.
John R. Smith was a pillar of the South Bend community for many years, dedicating his career to the South Bend Community School Corporation where he retired as Head Custodian. His tenure in the United States Army from 1973 to 1976 as a Tank crewmember and military police officer was a testament to his resilience and commitment. He was a lifelong learner, obtaining multiple certifications including Lift Truck Operations Training, Work Zone Safety Specialist, and an Associate Signs & Markings Specialist Level I. His achievements were many, but it was his relentless spirit and dedication that left a lasting legacy. John R. Smith's love for cooking, especially his mastery of the grill, brought joy to many gatherings and his recipes will long be treasured.
He is survived by his daughters, Staci Smith of South Bend, IN and Yolanda Smith of Indianapolis, IN; son, John R. Smith Jr. of Granger, IN; his favorite great niece, Sharina Green who he called Reeney and her husband Pete Green who he called "nephew". His favorite sister-in-law, Beatrice Smith all of South Bend, IN; a special friend Cheryl Daniels which he called his "Sunshine" of Kalamazoo, MI; great-niece, Gina of Texas; great-nephew, Smacker of Indianapolis, IN and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren.
John R. Smith is preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Pearl Smith; siblings, Helen Godwin, Decator and Mack Smith; his favorite niece and nephew, Vernel Snowden and Wesley Godwin and his favorite great nephew Preston Flowers. John R. Smith's life illuminated many, and his memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew him.
John R. Smith's viewing will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 9:00 am EDT at Alford's Mortuary, 1222 Napier Street, South Bend, Indiana, 46601. As we reflect on the life of John R., we invite you to share your memories and upload photos to the memorial page. This is a testament to John R. Smith's life, a space for us to gather, share stories, and celebrate the remarkable life of a man who touched so many. His journey may have ended, but his spirit continues to inspire. As Maya Angelou wrote, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." John R. Smith, you will be missed.
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