Submitted by: Dan Rich

John V. Smith

June 2, 1931 - July 7, 1999

South Bend Tribune 7/10/1999

John V. Smith was born on June 2, 1931, in Roane County (Harrison) Tenn., to the late Byrd and Georgia Smith. He departed this life on Wednesday, July 7, at 9:55 p.m. of lung fibrosis. While living in Tennessee, he was employed by Milan Arson Company for 10 years.

He moved to South Bend, Ind., in 1969, and worked for Allied Products (South Bend Stamping). There he was elected president of UAW Local 5, serving a five year term (1973-1978). John enjoyed race car driving, hunting and fishing. As a fisherman, in his last months God made him a fisher of men as he reached out to family and friends for the Lord. Through his death, we pray that his catch is bountiful. Survivors include his devoted wife, Betty (Tirotta) Smith; eighteen children, Patricia Smith, Debra Smith (Paul) Vitale, John C. Smith, Mari (Rex) Cook, Brenda Smith Faron, Kim (Roxie) Smith, Chris Smith, Betty June Smith, Michael Smith, Michelle Smith, Joseph (LaDonna) Smith, Paul Smith, Melissa (Dennis) Smith, Stefanye Smith, June (Jeff) Smith, April Smith, Jack Smith, and Bruno Smith; 34 grandchildren; 13 great- grandchildren; a sister, Nina Faith Heath; two brothers, H.J. Hyde and Tom Wolford; and a stepbrother, Clarence Brown. He also leaves a stepmother, Mary Brown, who with her family was instrumental in raising John (Johnny) to become the loving man that he was.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday in the Saint Joseph Valley Community Church, 833 S. 30th St., South Bend, at 3 p.m. After the service family and friends will gather in the basement of the church. John loved each of his children in his own special way. All of his children loved and will miss him very much. Memorial contributions may be donated to Mari Cook, 2010 S. Taylor St., South Bend, IN 46613, (219)282-2267 or (219)237-1320. Cobb Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.