John M. Smith

John Maynard Smith, born on April 24, 1934, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2025, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, surrounded by his family.

John was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Shirley Mae Goody. He was also preceded by his three sisters, Evelyn, Ethel, and Doris, as well as his stepbrother Lanny. He is survived by his four children: Jon R. Smith (Janet), Kristy H. Nicol (Duncan), Tammy Myatt (preceded in death by Kenneth), and Cory M. Smith (Deborah). John was blessed with nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Raised on a family farm in Benton Harbor, John graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1952, where he played football. He proudly served his country as a corporal in the Army’s demolition unit and later as a jeep driver for a colonel and a five-star general. Following his active-duty service, he continued with the Michigan National Guard as a sergeant and tank commander.
John worked for Whirlpool Corporation for 38 years as a tool and die setup man. Earlier in his career, he was employed at Ross Carrier/Clark Equipment and worked as a milkman for Producers Creamery.

An avid outdoorsman, John enjoyed fishing, hunting, football, and skeet shooting. He was a long-time member of the Rod & Gun Club in Coloma, Michigan, where he shared his love of the outdoors with friends and family. John's life was defined by his dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, and his passion for nature. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

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