John Wesley Smith

John Wesley “Jack” Smith, 94, of Forestville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, surrounded by love and family.

Jack was born on July 20, 1931, in Forestville, MD, to Milton and Gladys Smith. From an early age, he learned the values of hard work, perseverance, and loyalty—qualities that would define his life and the way he loved his family.

A proud patriot, Jack honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954, where he was stationed in France. His service to his country was a source of quiet pride and lifelong respect from those who knew him.

Jack dedicated his working life as an automobile mechanic, a trade he mastered with skill, patience, and determination. Though his formal education ended after the ninth grade, his intelligence, problem-solving ability, and work ethic spoke louder than any diploma. If something was broken, Jack could fix it—and he often did so for others without hesitation.

At the heart of Jack’s life was his family. He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Mary Arline Smith, and together they built a home filled with devotion and strength. He was a proud father to John Michael Smith (Brenda) and Jacqueline Dawn Mooney (Brandon), and a cherished grandfather to Mike Smith (Angela), Dann Smith (Alesia), Andrew Kerns, Kacy Kerns, Darrin Mooney (Haley), and Dylan Mooney. Jack also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride.

Jack was preceded in death by several beloved siblings: Edgar “Snooky” Smith, Mary Ellen O’Neil, Gloria Roush, Edward “Sonny” Brightwell Jr., and James “Jimmy” Brightwell. He is survived by his dear sister, May “Babe” Brightwell, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

Known for his steady presence, kind heart, and no-nonsense wisdom, Jack was a man people relied on. He showed love through actions, loyalty through consistency, and strength through perseverance. His legacy lives on in the generations he helped shape and the lives he touched simply by being himself.

Visitation will be held on February 5, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM at Lee Funeral Home. A burial service will take place on February 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Lee Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Woodyard Road, Clinton, MD.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hospice of the Chesapeake, in honor of Jack’s life and the compassionate care he received.

Jack will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a proud veteran, and a good man whose life was defined by service, family, and quiet strength. His memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.