JOHN RICHARD SMOOT, passed away on October 12, 2013, just 7 days before his 95th birthday. He was born in a little farmhouse in Mocksville, North Carolina, October 19, 1918. After laboring on farming tobacco and dairy cows, he decided farm living was not the life for him. He joined the CCC Camp at 17 years old. After a year he enlisted into the US Navy. He fought in two wars, crossed the Equator several times, he was part of an Expedition to Antarctica. He traveled to almost every country. He shared many a tale with us all which we enjoyed hearing many times. He was very proud of his 20 years of service, however looked forward eliminating travel, but no retirement for him. He then managed several large Apartment Buildings in Forest Hills, New York for I. Neuman & Sons. In 1984, we moved to Stuart, Florida, hopefully to retire. Not yet, he took a position with Outboard Marine Corp. in Stuart transporting boats and out board motors, and whatever else was needed. He was adored by all those he worked for, always had a joke and that ever present smiling face.
He leaves behind his devoted and cherished wife of 57 years, Gloria Smoot, his loving daughter Cheryl Odell and her husband Michael, his sister Madeline Sparks, 3 grandchildren, Jacqueline and Gary Juhl, Charles Steinberg and his wife Christa, Clifford Steinberg, his niece Geraldine Duryea and great grandchild who will enter the world and family in May, His family was the apple of his eyes. To us, he was our tower of strength, he was always there for us all, and we each know we called upon him many times. His out reached hands were always there, he showed us unconditional love.
A Memorial Service to Celebrate his life will be held at Aycock Funeral Home, 1504 SE Floresta Blvd, Port St. Lucie, Fl, on October 26th, 2013 at 2:00pm. Memorial contributions may be made the Treasure Coast Hospice or The Hope Center for Autism, Stuart, Florida.
My Father was referred to as ”Poppy” to everyone he knew. He was a strong, honorable man of simple means. Wanted little for himself, but gave us everything he possibly could. His spirit will forever be embedded onto our hearts and souls. The memory of his gentle smile will guide us through this difficult time and forevermore. He will be greatly missed by all.
Arrangements are entrusted to Aycock Funeral Home, Port St. Lucie, FL. Please visit and sign our guest register book at www.aycockportstlucie.com
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