John Thomas Smith

John Thomas Smith, born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1937, in Malad, Idaho, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, in Bountiful, Utah.

From an early age, John was known for his warmth and friendliness—earning him the title of “Most Friendly” in high school. He also served as class president and excelled in athletics, competing in boxing (regional champion), baseball, football, and basketball. John attended Snow College on a football scholarship, where he cultivated a lifelong commitment to fitness and discipline. It was there that he met the love of his life, Kay Blackett Smith, with whom he shared 63 devoted years of marriage.

After earning an associate’s degree from Snow College, John enrolled at Brigham Young University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering. He spent his career designing rockets and commercial trusses, approaching his work with quiet diligence and taking great pride in every project. John and Kay settled in Bountiful, where they raised their family, cultivated wonderful and lasting friendships, and where John became known as the neighborhood handyman, always ready to lend a hand with a project or repair.

A man of humble faith, John served willingly in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including in multiple bishoprics and a lifetime of ward, temple, and service callings. He especially loved working with youth and Scouting, where his steady encouragement and good humor left a lasting impact.

John was committed to a life of fitness and healthy habits, going to the gym six days a week and golfing well into his 80s. He coached most of his son’s basketball and baseball teams and remained a devoted supporter of athletics throughout his life. As a grandparent, John is estimated to have attended over 3,500 sporting events, faithfully cheering on his five grandchildren from the sidelines, rarely missing a game. He was also a devoted babysitter for his grandchildren and a steady helping hand in Shauna’s candy business, contributing countless hours and using his engineering mind to design tools that increased production and ensured uniformity.

He perfected the art of the dad joke and was a lifelong humorist who believed in the power of optimism. His quick wit delivered smiles, well-timed jokes, and knowing eye-rolls, --John loved making people laugh. He also delighted in life’s simple pleasures, including his favorite treat, Nielsen’s Frozen Custard—always chocolate with nuts and cherries. John loved the outdoors and spent many summer weekends at Fish Lake, Utah, where time with family, fresh air, and simple routines brought him deep joy.

John is survived by his daughter Shauna Frampton (Bruno) of Springville, Utah, and his son J. Brian Smith (Joyce) of Bountiful, Utah, along with five grandchildren—Bridger (Lindsey), Luke (Genna), Hunter (Kenzie), Katie, and Ellie—and 12 great-grandchildren (soon to be 13). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Kay, his parents Robert and Ruth Thorpe Smith, his brother Robert Cleon Smith, and his sister Ruth Elaine Smith Edwards.

The family is profoundly grateful to the dedicated professional caregivers who supported John through two years on hospice. Their care, love, and genuine connection brought comfort and peace, and John deeply cherished the time he spent with each of them.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Tanglewood Ward House, 1450 S. 350 W., Bountiful, Utah, with a viewing prior from 9:30–10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at the Bountiful City Cemetery.

Services will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live-stream will begin about 10-15 minutes prior to the service and will be posted below.

John’s legacy of kindness, perseverance, humor, faith, and devotion to family continues to inspire all who knew and loved him.