Joe was a loving father and enjoyed coaching and teaching his boys and their friends to be men. He spent much of his time at home and never turned away from helping a neighbor or animal alike. He found joy in simple things: tinkering in the garage, camping and telling stories, listening to old records, and candle making. But his favorite place, without question, was outside in the yard. Whether he was sitting in his favorite chair smoking out the neighborhood with a good fire or feeling the sun on his face while watching the birds, just breathing in the quiet, that was his peace. Out there, time slowed down and the world made sense to him.
Those who knew Joe will remember his crass sense of humor, his one-of-a-kind fashion and the way he stayed true to himself, no matter what anyone thought. He did not need crowds or applause. He simply needed space, a bit of sky, and the freedom to be who he was—and in doing so, he taught his family the value of authenticity and the beauty of a simple life.
Joe is survived by his two sons, Joseph Aaron (Kristie) Smith and Paul William (Samantha) Smith; grandchildren, Elway, Christian, Troy, Xavier, Bella, Taylor, Little Aaron and Peyton; siblings, Alan, Jose, and Anita; and special nieces, Mamie, Natalie and April.
He was preceded in death by wife of 40 years, Sharon Smith; mother and father, Shelby Webb Vasquez and Kenneth Smith; and siblings, his tougher and meaner sister, Shirley Smith, and brother, Kevin McFerrin.
In lieu of flowers or donations, the family requests you honor Joe by taking a quiet moment outside—sit in the yard, watch the world go by, and think of him. That’s exactly how he’d want to be remembered.
A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 5:00 pm in the Arts and Crafts Building at the Richland County Fairgrounds. All are welcome to come eat, share a Budweiser or a good story, or just to embrace family and friends alike.
Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory-Ontario is honored to serve the family.
