John Francis Smith

Obituary of John Francis Smith

John Francis Smith

Age 61 of Horseheads, NY. He was born December 4, 1964 in Montour Falls, son of the late John H. Smith Jr. and Mildred R. Smith. He passed away on February 3, 2026.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years Mary Smith; brother Tim Smith; brothers-in-law Frank (Chris) Witzel, Tom (Stacy) Witzel, and Dave (Fatima) Witzel; niece Amanda (Mike); nephews Zack (Cahaley), Chris (Kaylee), Jarryd, and Jayden.

John served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1995. A veteran of Desert Storm, he worked as a Tank Systems Mechanic and was honorably discharged as E5. When he left the Army, he enjoyed the freedom of the open road as a tractor trailer driver, later working locally at Robinson Lumber, G & T Air, and Erie Materials. He enjoyed watching sports on TV and in person, when he had the chance. His teams and favorites were the Tarheels and the Yankees.

John loved time with his fur babies, especially in the last two years. They will miss him very much.

His family sends thanks to Dr. Rachel Rodenbach & her team at the Wilmot Cancer Center in Rochester, NY, the Bath VA & HBPC, all his aides at Family Services of Chemung County, and most recently CareFirst Hospice of New York. There are too many to name, but you know who you are and that John appreciated you all so much.

Family and friends are invited to visit the Barber Funeral Home, 413 S. Main St., in Horseheads, NY, on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 from 11 am to 1 pm. He will be laid to rest in Maple Grove Cemetery, Horseheads, NY with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, a contribution in John's name to Wilmot Cancer Center, or the Chemung County SPCA would be appreciated in his memory. Follow the link on the left of the page.

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