John Wilson Smith

John Wilson Smith, Palmyra, Mo., passed away on Sept. 9, 2021, at the age of 85.

He was born on May 3, 1936, to Cecil and Cora Smith of Clapper, Mo. After a sudden stroke, he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.

John graduated from Monroe City High School in 1954. John and Barbara Smith were married by Reverend Ellis Turner at Andrew Chapel Church on June 17, 1956. They were married 65 years and had five children. 

A carpenter and farmer for over 60 years, John was an Old Thresher master sorghum maker for over 30 years and enjoyed showing his favorite tractors and recycling old treasures to the community. 

He loved his kids and grandkids, gardening, trains, tractors and anything John Wayne. A favorite memory was him touching his toes in the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico while visiting his children.

He is survived by: his wife, Barbara Smith; his children, Ronald Smith, Tammie Welch, Candy Minor, Dawn Smith and Melody Hughes (Jason); and his siblings, Marjorie O’Donnell, Phyllis Foster, Rita Smith, Larry Smith, David Smith (Mary Lou), Rose Smith (sister-in-law), Pat Smith (Phyllis) and Carl Smith. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Lysander and Cora Pauline Harris Smith; his siblings, Mike Smith, Ellis Smith, Dora Denise Smith and Terry Schaffer; his grandchildren, Dana Welch, Jeremy Smith and Ryan Smith; his great-grandson, Gavon Smith.

Graveside services will be held Wednesday, Sept. 15,  at 10 a.m., at Andrew Chapel Cemetery, Marion County, Mo. 

Memorials may be sent to Northeast Old Threshers of Shelbina, Community Loving Care Hospice or United Methodist Church of Monroe City instead of flowers. 

Cards of sympathy may be sent to Mrs. Barbara Smith, 315 W. North Street, Palmyra Mo. 63461.  

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Garner Funeral Home and Chapel, Monroe City, Mo.