Joseph Roger Smith

1961 - 2025

Joseph Roger Smith, age 64, of Hilliard, Florida, was called home to our Lord on the morning of Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. He was born to Roger and Alice Marie Scussel Smith on Sept. 2, 1961.
Joseph excelled in his academics, graduating from Hilliard High School and the University of North Florida. He studied at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary as well as St. Meinrad College. Joseph became a teacher at Bishop Kenny High School, where he was able to encourage his students to never stop learning.
Joseph's passion for nature led him to achieve the Master Gardener Certificate where he contributed to the Nassau County Record by writing in the "Harvest Gold" column. He delighted in planting a variety of vegetables and herbs.
Music and its origin were another of Joseph's many passions; he especially adored classical music, recounting the works of Bach and Mozart often.
Joseph was very fond of history and was always sharing anecdotes with his family and friends. Later in life, Joseph became the director of Religious Education at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church. He treasured this position, as he could share his knowledge of his faith with his students. In his later years, he devoted himself to caring for his mother, Alice Marie.
Above all, Joseph loved his family. He cherished each and every family gathering and always cared for his siblings and their children.
Joseph was preceded in death by his grandparents, Joseph F. and Bessie Scussel; and father, Roger M. Smith.
Joseph is survived by his mother, Alice Marie Scussel Smith; siblings, Bettina Conner (Robert), Phil Smith (Susan), and Ellie Frazel (Jim); nephews and nieces, Danielle (Joe) Cassie (Chris), Carly (Gavin), Phillip, Kyle, Luke, Hamp, Marlee (Grant), and Alie (Andrew); as well as many great-nephews and nieces.
The tribute above was prepared by Joseph's loving family.
A mass of Christian burial for Joseph will be held on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church with his dear friend Father Richard Perko officiating. Interment will follow in St. Theresa Cemetery in Hilliard. We sincerely invite all who knew Joseph to attend and honor his beloved memory. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 U.S. 1, Callahan, FL 32011, 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.