John Wesley Smith Jr.

John Wesley Smith, Jr., a man who loved his family, his friends, travel, and adventure- passed away quietly in his home on March 18, 2023. John was born in Hemphill, Texas in 1936. Growing up and moving around with his brother Neil, he eventually landed in Lockport, Louisiana where he finished out his high school years. After a couple of years in college, he decided to look for a different path- enlisting into military service as a United States Marine. It was during the time he spent stationed in San Francisco on Treasure Island that he met Bertha- his future wife. John was proud of his service to his country and his years in active duty had a tremendous impact on him. After leaving the corps, John worked various jobs- a taxi-cab driver, a casino card dealer- before getting his pilot’s license and moving back home to Louisiana. He was joined shortly after by Bertha and they were married in Kramer, Louisiana on June 18, 1966- the beginning of a 53-yearlong union. While raising his two children, Aaron and Jennifer, John spent many years working as a fish spotter where he established numerous lifelong friendships. He had an adventurous spirit and truly enjoyed working as a pilot, traveling the globe, exploring new places, riding his motorbike, sailing his sailboat, and spending time with his loved ones- especially his treasured granddaughters. An avid history and aviation buff, John was happy to share his wealth of information with those that visited the Regional Military Museum in Houma, Louisiana where he spent his time volunteering. John touched the lives of many with his easy-going personality and his love and support of family and friends, which will be greatly missed.
John is survived by his children, Aaron John Smith (Carmen) and Jennifer Smith Orillion (Michael); his grandchildren, Abigail and Katherine Orillion; his brother, Neil Smith (Faye); his nephews: Neil, Jr., Brock, and Andrew Smith; and his niece, Rachel Smith. He was preceded in death by his wife, the late Bertha Bidart Smith; his mother and father, Evelyn Chapman and John Smith; and his niece, Melissa Smith.
Funeral services will be held at Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, Louisiana 70001 on Saturday, April 1, 2023, with visitation from 10:00 am-12:00 noon followed by a service at 12:00 noon. Interment will follow at Resurrection Memorial Park- St. Hilary of Poitiers Catholic Church, 333 Twin Oaks Drive, Raceland, Louisiana 70394.
As a remembrance, online or in-person donations can be made in John’s name to The Regional Military Museum in Houma, Louisiana at 1154 Barrow St. Houma, LA 70360 or www.regionalmilitarymuseum.com. Online condolences may be offered at www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.

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