Joseph Raymond Smith

Joseph “Joe” Raymond Smith, 81, passed peacefully on February 12, 2026. He was born on November 21, 1944, the son of the late Joseph Carl Smith & Mary Antionette (Fedewa) Smith. He was raised in St. Johns, Michigan, where he graduated from St. Johns High School in 1963. He joined the US Army Reserves where he served proudly and honorably. He married Susan Jean (Schultz) Smith on October 16, 1982, in Lansing, Michigan.

As a young man Joe worked on his family farm for many years. His hard work, loyalty, and dedication taught him his strong work ethic. Shortly after his return from the US Army, he began his career with General Motors in Lansing, Michigan and worked on A-Frames in the car assembly division. He stood tall, head held high, and with such pride, he wore his UAW shirt and hat daily. He was proud to be a blue-collar worker and retired after 36 years.

Smiling behind the wheel of his Pontiac Grand Prix, Chevrolet Conversion van, and Oldsmobile minivans, he enjoyed many road trips - annual family vacations to Cedar Point, Florida, and several Gus Macker Tournaments all over Michigan. He treasured his time with his late wife, Susan. Traveling many miles together, they enjoyed frequenting casinos, visiting local restaurants, and the beautiful country back road scenery. As they aged, road trips became shorter, but even more exciting, as they commuted their grandchildren to school, sporting practices, and games.

A lifelong Detroit Tigers and Lions fan, and a die-hard MSU enthusiast, he never missed their games. He attended many games with his brothers, son Chris, and grandson, Brady. A loyal sports fan, he had the opportunity to attend The World Series twice – once with his father and brothers and another with his son, Chris. Joe enjoyed his bowling leagues with his family and his Wednesday league at Royal Scot and found great pride in his perfect 300 game.

An uncomplicated man full of kindness, gratitude, and smile full of a life well lived. His presence was heartwarming, his laughter was contagious, and his humility was felt by everyone.

A true man of his word – a better man of leadership and commitment. An inspiration to many, especially to his family, during his 30 years of sobriety. Not all days were easy for Joe, but he managed to find strength for morning walks, birdwatching from his living room window, enjoying sunrises on Lake Leelanau, and comfort in his faith.

Joe is survived by his three sons, Christopher (Marisol) Smith, Matthew (Lisa) Ashley, and Michael (Renae) Ashley; six grandchildren, Braden and Ava Smith, Allison, Alexa, Lauren, and Luke Ashley; siblings, Bernadette Droste, Charles (Debbie) Smith, and Elizabeth (Steve) Goodman; sister-in-law, Joan (Butch) Schneider; and several nephews and nieces.

He is reunited in Heaven with his wife Susan Jean Smith, his parents, Joseph and Mary, his brother Mark, his brother-in-law, Paul Droste, and his niece, Angela Droste.

Joe lived life to the fullest, “One day at a time.”

The funeral service will be held at St. Therese Catholic Church, 102 W Randolph St, Lansing, MI 48906, on Friday, February 27th, 2026 at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until the time of Mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Joe's honor to: Optimal Care Hospice, 801 Rosehill Rd, Jackson, MI 49202