John Oliver Smith

John Oliver Smith II, age 68, of Johnson City, Tennessee, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, September 19, 2025. He now rests in the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

John was born in Fleming-Neon, Kentucky, to the late John Oliver Smith and Dorcus Shearer Smith. A proud graduate of Fleming-Neon High School, he went on to attend the University of Kentucky, where he played the sousaphone in the UK Marching Wildcat Band for three years. He later earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Church Music from the University of the Cumberlands.

Faith and service were central to John’s life. He was a devoted member of Central Baptist Church, where he was active in the Pathfinders Sunday School Class, Chancel Choir, and the Praise Ringers, where he especially enjoyed teaching children to ring the church bells. He was also a committed member of the Emmaus Community and Kairos Prison Ministries. His deep love of music extended into the community through his role as a member and librarian of the Appalachian Express Chorus.

John had many passions and hobbies, including gardening, woodworking, building dulcimers, crafting cuckoo clocks, making stained glass, and spending time at the beach and Watauga Lake. He cherished his classic 40th Anniversary Edition Mustang Convertible and enjoyed taking it to the Cruise-In events in Elizabethton. He also adored his Springer Spaniel, Buddy—but above all, John found the greatest joy in time spent with his grandchildren.

On April 20, 2000, John married the love of his life, Faye, and together they built a life filled with music, faith, family, and love.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Faye; son, Sheaffer (Rachel) Smith and their children, Micah Andrew Smith and Oliver Riley Smith; daughter, Desiree Doyle and her children, Dallas Doyle and Mallie Doyle; sisters, Shearer Goode and Susan (Tim) Vanover; as well as several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Central Baptist Church in Johnson City. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Paul Farrior. A committal service will immediately follow at Happy Valley Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Keith Trivett, Steve Trivett, Jim Hawk, Conrad Auel, Andy Auel, and Lynn Fitzgerald. Honorary pallbearers include the Appalachian Express Chorus, David Willis, George Smith, Larry Smith, and Larry Denny.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the Washington County Animal Shelter.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.morrisbaker.com. Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E. Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Smith family. (423) 282-1521.