Born in Columbus, GA to the late Phillip and Dollena DixonSmith, Mr. Smith was a 20 Veteran of the U. S. Air Force who served during the Korean War, and was also retired from Civil Services at Ft. Benning, GA following 24 years as a Transportation Specialist. He attended Ward Chapel AME Church and was a member of the American Legion Post 267.

He was preceded in death by his son, John, Jr. and daughter, Pamela J. Cotton. Surviving is his wife of 60 years, Mrs. Marcelle Barnes Smith; and a cousin, Irma Williams.