JOHN SMITH
John L. Smith, 81, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. John was born on September 4, 1943, in Wellston, Ohio, the son of the late John and Stella Mae (Hughes) Smith.
A proud graduate of Wellston High School, John went on to serve his country honorably as a member of the United States Army, where he was deployed to Vietnam. During his military service, he served as a Huey helicopter mechanic — a role he took on with great skill and commitment.
On February 21, 1970, John married the love of his life, Margaret “Peg” (O’Leary-Colley), who survives in Columbus Grove, and together they built a beautiful life over five decades filled with love, adventure, and family.
He was a devoted and hardworking man, spending nearly 35 years as a signal inspector for B&O, Chessie, and CSX Railroads. After retirement, John and Peg became “snowbirds,” enjoying their winters in Florida, where John loved mingling with the locals and going shrimping. Back in Ohio, he spent many spring Saturday mornings at the Bluffton Farmers Market, where he delighted in selling flowers and connecting with the community.
A passionate traveler, John and Peg visited all 48 continental United States, often making stops at casinos along the way. John was also an enthusiastic horse racing fan and attended the Kentucky Derby annually, keeping a special interest in the Triple Crown races.
Of all the titles John held, none meant more to him than “Grandpa.” He took an active role in the lives of his grandchildren, passing down life lessons and cherished skills — from fishing to racing. “Grandpa John” was instrumental in introducing his three grandsons to the Lima Area Soap Box Derby, an activity they enjoyed for many years. Many family vacations were taken at Holden Beach, North Carolina, where John would take his grandsons deep sea fishing.
John is also survived by his children: Tammy (Kevin) Cheatwood, John L. Smith Jr., Lisa (David) McAdams, and Linda Colley; siblings: Ike Smith, Marilyn Bayes, Joyce Gross, Sharon Clark, and Don Hughes, grandchildren: Aaron (Brandi) Schumacher, Tony (Jayme) Schumacher, Kevin (Jamie) Schumacher, Dustin (Susan) Cheatwood, and Jessica Smith; and 14 great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, John Smith III; and great-grandson, Lane Rossman.
Graveside services are at 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Truro Cemetery, OH-12, Columbus Grove, with military honors. Pastor Geoffrey Eubank is officiating. Visitation is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Hartman-Rousculp Funeral Home, 10879 OH-12, Columbus Grove. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. For online condolences, please visit www.hartmanfunerals.com.