John L. Smith 75, of Chepachet, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, October 25, 2022. Born in Providence, he was the son of the late William H. Smith and Irene Elizabeth (Fortier) O’Gara. He is survived by his wife Kimberly (Tucker) Smith of Chepachet; his children, John L. Smith, Jr. of Cranston; Tammy L. Ricci, her husband Kevin and son KJ, of North Providence; Lisa M. Smith of Cranston; Christina L. Smith of Chepachet; and Meghan L. Smith and her fiancé Codi J. Donovan of Harrisville.
Jack served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 – 1972. Upon his honorable discharge, he worked as Personnel Manager for the next 20 – 25 years for Ferro Novelty Co, among other businesses, and, with five others, formed Swarovski America, Ltd. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Jack served seven years as a Johnston call firefighter. He also served as an EMT and taught first aid and CPR for the American Red Cross. A dedicated volunteer, Jack was nominated by his Swarovski employees and was recognized by Governor DiPrete with an honorary John Smith Day. Jack’s volunteerism extended to helping annually at Washington County Fair, selling ice cream and enticing customers to purchase more. He was quite a salesman!
A caring, compassionate man, Jack enjoyed spending time with his family and vacationing. He was a loyal New England Patriots fan, following them closely. Interested in current events and politics, Jack readily enjoyed sharing his point of view and steadily defended his position.
Jack earned a bachelor’s degree in Business administration from Johnson & Wales Summa Cum Laude.
Calling hours for Jack will be held Sunday, October 30, 2022, from 5 PM to 7 PM at Anderson Winfield Funeral Home, Route 44 at Greenfield Common, Greenville. A funeral service will be held at Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home on Monday morning at 9:30 AM, followed by a burial with military honors at RI Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, Exeter.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the American Heart Association or the Disabled American Veterans (DAV.org) is welcome.
American Heart Association
DAV