John Wesley Smith

John Smith, 64, of North Carolina, passed away suddenly on September 18, 2025, in a tragic commercial fishing accident. Born on November 7, 1960, in Stuart, Florida, John lived a life devoted to faith, family, and the sea.

He was adopted by Jesse O. Smith and Alice C. Smith, missionaries in Papua New Guinea, and grew up with a strong foundation in faith and service.

A lifelong commercial fisherman, John worked the waters from the Treasure Coast of Florida to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. He was respected throughout the fishing community, remembered not only for his skill and dedication but also for his encouragement and generosity. From the roller-rig fishery days off South Florida to chasing roe mullet in Louisiana, John was always at the top of his game. Yet what set him apart most was not only his mastery of fishing but also his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Even on the water, John’s eyes were on the cross.

John’s deepest devotion was to Jesus Christ, shaping his life according to Christ’s promises in Scripture and living to honor his Savior. His second greatest devotion was to his family. He was a loving husband to his wife of 29 years, Libby Jones Smith, and a devoted father to his children: Ben (and wife Katelynn), Jana (and husband Micah Oostdyk), and Evan (engaged to Hayley Neumann). He was also a proud grandfather to Bryson Smith (son of Ben and Katelynn). John always saw the good in everyone, even when others could not see it, leading him to be a supportive friend and mentor to many.

John knew that accepting salvation through Jesus Christ was the most important decision anyone could ever make. His family treasures the promises and truths found in God’s Word and continues to pray for those John cared about, focusing on their salvation and faith in Christ.

“Jesus said…‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.’” (John 11:25–26, NKJV)

“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil.” (Hebrews 6:19, NKJV)

John’s legacy will live on in the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the faith he shared.

While John will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now with his Lord and Savior—where there is no pain, sadness, or anger, only joy everlasting.

There will be two Celebration of Life services.  The North Carolina service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Bethel Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 794 Burnt Mill Road, Hertford, N.C.  The Florida service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Tropical Farms Baptist Church, 1555 SW Kanner Hwy, Stuart, FL.