Obituary of John R. Smith
Age 89, of Joliet, Illinois, passed away early Friday morning, December 30, 2022 at Ascension St. Joseph Medical Center. Jack was born May 9th, 1933 to the late Marjorie A. (Ryan) and Lee J. Smith of Joliet, Illinois. He attended St. John’s Catholic Grade School, Joliet Catholic High School, and Joliet Junior College, prior to serving in the United States Air Force. Upon being honorably discharged from the United States Air Force, Jack obtained his bachelor’s degree from Lewis University in Romeoville, IL.
On June 20th, 1959 he was united in Holy Matrimony with Janice C. Simons at St. John’s Catholic Church in Joliet.
In 1994, Jack retired with 35 years of distinguished service to the United States Department of Treasury, Internal Revenue Service. Following his retirement, Jack continued to follow his passion for the game of fast-pitch softball and his calling to inspire women’s academic and athletic pursuits at Joliet Junior College. As the Head Softball Coach for nine seasons, he lead the 1999 team to the NJCAA Division III National Championship game, which that team has been inducted into JJC’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Other passion driven employment opportunities that valued his time and talents, included Eich’s Sports, Joliet Park District, and Raceway Associates, LLC.,
In addition to Jann, his beloved wife of 63 years, he is also preceded in death by their infant son, John Stephen; his parents; and his sister, Helenlee A. Smith.
Jack is survived by two daughters, Nancy (Wayne) Southcott of Portishead, England and Laurie (Brian) Malloy of Shorewood; three grandchildren, Zachary (Amber) Smith, Jacob (Bianca) McLurkin and Hope Southcott; great grandson, Jack Bailey-Smith; several nieces and nephews also survive.
Visitation for John R. “Jack” Smith will be Sunday, January 8th, 2023 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd) Joliet. Funeral services are Monday, January 9th, 2023, 9:15 a.m. from the funeral home to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, 604 N. Raynor Avenue, Joliet, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Romeoville.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jack and Jann’s name can be made to the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.
For more information please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.
