Stephen Joseph Smith

Stephen Joseph Smith, 80, of Cave Creek, Arizona, entered into rest on January 24, 2022. Steve was born on July 17, 1941 in Cleveland, Ohio. In 1947, his parents relocated the family to Phoenix, AZ. Steve attended West High School in Phoenix.

Stephen was an employee of the Arizona Republic and Gazette, a firefighter with the Phoenix Fire Department, and an entrepreneur/owner of Phoenix Blind and Cooling, Smick Enterprises, and owned motels in Safford and Flagstaff, Arizona. His favorite job was with the Phoenix Fire Department in which he frequently reminisced. In 1961, he married his sweetheart, Linda Fryar, and in May, 2021, they celebrated 60 years of marriage. He was a faithful church congregant and a member of the Sunshine Choral-Aires Choir.

Steve is survived by his wife, Linda, daughters Debbie Thompson (Steve), and Cindy Ruthem. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Amanda Hurtado (Heber), Alyssa Dieringer (Anthony), Stephen Thompson (Anastasia), Taylor Thompson (Alicen), Zachary Thompson, Meagan Williams, Marcus Ruthem, Spencer Moller (Seth), Sydney Gillespie, and 13 great grandchildren. Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Steve J. Smith and Theresa Smith, and daughter Jenny Gillespie (Gary).

Steve faithfully served in church as an usher, board member, youth camp organizer, and youth group leader. His love was riding his quad in Williams, AZ. He will be remembered for his faith, his loyalty and generosity.

A visitation for Stephen will be held Tuesday, February 15, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Green Acres Glendale Mortuary, 5830 West Missouri Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301. A celebration of life will occur Tuesday, February 15, 2022 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, 5830 West Missouri Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301. A committal service will occur Tuesday, February 15, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Resthaven Park Cemetery, 6450 W Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.GreenAcresGlendaleMort.com for the Smith family.