John Wilson Smith, Jr.

John W. Smith, Jr., 95, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully at his residence on Thursday, June 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Anson County to the late John W. Smith, Sr. and Fanny Hutchinson Smith, John led a life marked by service, craftsmanship, and deep devotion to his faith and family. He attended Appalachian Teachers College before proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force for four years. During his time in the military, he was stationed in Okinawa and flew both the B-47 and B-29 aircraft as a pilot.

Following his service, John retired from GMAC as a credit supervisor. He was a faithful member of Snyder Memorial Baptist Church, where he served in the carpentry ministry and the Bicycle ministry. For many years, he also served as a golf tournament marshal at Baywood Golf Course.

A talented woodworker, John designed and crafted many beautiful pieces of furniture for his family home, including a china cabinet, table, and pie safe. He will be remembered as a loving and kind gentleman whose life touched many.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 11:00 to 11:50 a.m. in the Gathering Hall at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church. A celebration of life will follow at 12 noon in the sanctuary. Burial with military honors will take place at Lafayette Memorial Park.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Ben Smith; sister, Gwen Surratt; stepson, Jeff Thaggard; and stepdaughter, Debbie Canupp.

He is survived by his wife, Joy Nette Smith; son, Jeff Smith and wife Lisa; daughter, Heather Jones; stepson, Tracy Thaggard and wife Toni; stepdaughters, Kim Chavis and husband Larry, and Jeanie Abner; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and cherished friends.

Memorials may be made to Snyder Memorial Baptist Church.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, N.C. 28301.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.jerniganwarren.com.

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