John Smith Obituary

Barbourville, Ky. - John Nelson Smith, age 74, of Girdler, Kentucky passed away at his home on July 25,2025. Born in Knox County on April 19, 1951, John was the son of the late Dora Mills Smith and Chris Smith. On February 9, 1981, John married the love of his life, Ruby Miller. They shared many years together, filled with love, laughter, and hard work before Ruby's passing. John's devotion to Ruby and their family was evident in everything he did. John was the kind of person who always went above and beyond for others. His love for his family-especially his grandchildren-was unmatched. He delighted in keeping his grandsons well-supplied with Mt. Dew and Ramen Noodles, simple gestures that showed just how deeply he cared. A true mechanic at heart, John turned his passion into a lifelong career in the automotive industry. He made a name for himself working on and selling vehicles, and he proudly helped his son start a business to carry on the family's work in automotives. For John, "working" wasn't just a job-it was his favorite hobby, and he stayed active in the garage even in his later years. John's unwavering work ethic, generous spirit, and genuine kindness touched the lives of many. He will be missed dearly by all who were lucky enough to know him. John is survived by his sons: Eric Smith (Cindy) and John "JJ" Smith, Jr. (Samantha); daughters: Jeannie Smith, Melissa Swafford (Rodney), and Anna Beard (Greg); brothers: Harold Smith (Debra), Jerry Smith, Ralph Smith (Shelby), Donnie Smith (Lynn), and Doug Smith (Diane); and sister Judy Baker. He was a cherished grandfather to: Allison Lebron (Alex), Logan Jackson (Brittany), Devin Jackson, Sarah Garrison (Andrew), Ryleigh Swafford (Bryson), Jayme Swafford, Jaxon Smith, Jase Smith, Erika Daniels (Jordan), Brady Smith, James Smith (Tia), Cami Smith, Holly Smith, and Jeffrey Smith. John's legacy lives on in his eight great-grandchildren: Ruby Lebron, Miller Garrison, Mila Jackson, Lennon Jackson, Remy Jackson, Ezra Smith, Dawson Smith, and Reedy Joe Smith. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife Ruby Miller Smith; his brother Herbert Smith; and his sister-in-law Peggy Smith. The Smith family will receive friends at Hopper Funeral Home Monday, July 28, 2025 from 3:00 pm until the funeral hour of 5:00 pm. Pastor Mike Helton will officiate assisted by Pastor Tommy Frazier. Interment will follow the funeral service in the Henry Mills Cemetery at Road Fork, Kentucky. The family has chosen the following Casket Bearers: Andrew Garrison, Alex Lebron, Jordan Daniels, Bryson Waters, Jaxon Smith, Bert Washam, Jase Smith, and Brady Smith. The Hopper family, Victoria Hopper and Sally Hopper, and the staff of Hopper Funeral Home: Mr. Robin Reese, Mrs. Lorena Blakenship, Mrs. Brenda Johnson, and Mr. Reid Brewer, express sincere condolences to the family and friends of John Nelson Smith. Hopper Funeral Home, established over 120 years ago, is entrusted with all service arrangements for John Nelson Smith.