John Edwin Smith

A former Arizona and Illinois resident, John E. Smith Sr. passed away on the 8th of January 2012. At his request no service will be conducted locally but a memorial service will be conducted in Illinois on a date to be determined.

Born on 23 April 1921 in Wyanet Illinois. John was a member of a brotherhood of heroes that is continually dwindling, the “World War II Veteran”. He joined the Marine Corps in 1941 and gallantly served on Guadalcanal, Tarawa and Saipan. He joins his brothers of arms now with his Bronze Star and Purple Heart pinned high on his chest.

Discharged in 1945, John pursued his education and received both his Bachelors and Masters degrees working as an educator for 30 years culminating his career as a Principal at Poplar Grove Illinois Junior High.

His priorities in life, education, family and golf (not always in that exact order). His extended family consists of members of both the Elks Club and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

John spent many years on the golf course and many family memories surrounding his love of golf and pleasure of teaching others the noble sport. His life has been blessed with a huge family that provided for numerous memories and travel opportunities. These travels led him and Darlene to live and golf in Wisconsin, Georgia, Florida, Arizona and finally in Mountainburg, Arkansas. His life filled with golf carts, fairways and the occasional sand trap. To sum it up his life was a par 4 with the right clubs and fair winds. He loved the game …he loved the challenge…he loved us all.

John is survived by his wife Darlene and Sons John Jr., Joseph, James, Mark, Stuart, Tracy, Tim and Daughters Judith, Jane, Pat, Jan and Dawn. Numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Semper Fi….Hero!

Condolences may be sent to 1135 W. John Wright Lane, Mountainburg AR, 72946. The family requests no flowers, please!