JT Smith

JT Smith was born in Grayling, Michigan on December 14, 1976, to Dale and Arvie Smith. JT grew up in Houghton Lake and remained in Michigan until relocating to Corpus Christi, Texas, where he lived through his high school years. After a brief stay in San Antonio, JT eventually settled in Austin, Texas, where he remained for the rest of his life.

JT was deeply driven, intelligent, and hardworking. With more than 25 years of experience in hospitality, operations, facilities, and technology leadership, he became widely respected for his talent for solving problems, leading teams, and building systems that helped organizations grow and thrive. Over the course of his career, he held several leadership roles, including VP of IT and Facilities at Freebirds World Burrito and most recently Senior Director of Facilities for Walters Wedding Estates.

JT had an incredible ability to learn new skills quickly and was truly a jack of all trades. He was endlessly curious and always eager to understand how things worked. He loved home improvement projects and especially enjoyed working outdoors, where he often found his greatest sense of peace.

JT had a sharp wit, an unforgettable smile, and a personality that naturally drew people toward him. He was often the life of the party, with a gift for making people laugh and instantly feel comfortable. Whether through sarcasm, storytelling, or perfectly timed one-liners, JT brought warmth, humor, and energy everywhere he went. He had a rare way of making others feel seen, welcomed, and cared for.

Whether someone needed advice, help with a project, or simply someone to show up when things went wrong, JT was often the first person people called.

Above all else, JT loved his family and friends. He shared his life with his spouse of nearly 14 years, Felix, along with their beloved basset hounds, Brooklyn and Dunkers. He was also deeply loved by his mother-in-law, Elsa, who became an important part of his family and daily life. JT leaves behind countless friends, colleagues, neighbors, and loved ones whose lives were touched by his generosity, guidance, humor, and willingness to help others.

JT was preceded in death by his mother, Arvie Smith, and his father, Dale Smith.

JT will be remembered for his sharp mind, his huge heart, his determination, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

A Celebration of Life for JT will be announced in the coming days.