John was born in Burlington, NC to Myrtle and Clayto Smith. He was employed with the Bell Telephone System until his retirement in 1981. He spent many years of retirement coaching tennis, playing golf and traveling.
He is survived by his wife Patricia, son Frank of Winston Salem, NC, daughter Linda (Conkwright) of Charlotte Courthouse, VA, three granddaughters – Caroline, Catherine (Kirtley), and Christin, brother Melvin, and sister Nadine (Fuqua) of Burlington, NC. He was preceded in death by his wife of 32 years, Mary (Eilber) and brother Marvin.
John will be remembered for his loyalty to friends, love of animals, sense of humor and great humanitarian heart. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens. He will be interred at Naples Memorial Gardens.
