Individual Details

Death

John Skipwith "Skipper" Smith Jr. was born on June 13, 1925, in Clinton, Louisiana, to John S. Smith Sr. and Goldie Charlton. The oldest of five siblings, he was known as "Skipper" to friends throughout his life, but to his family he was simply "John S." His family was among the earliest settlers of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a heritage of which he was quietly proud. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, John S. served his country during World War II, including service in the Admiralty Islands in the Pacific Theater. Following his military service, he attended Louisiana State University, where he earned a degree in chemistry. After graduating, John S. moved to the Houston, Texas, area and began a distinguished career in metallurgy with Armco Steel in Jacinto City. In 1960, he and his growing family settled in Baytown, Texas, where they made their home for the next twenty-six years. In 1986, he relocated to Vancouver, Washington, where he continued his career before retiring shortly thereafter. In September 1951, John S. met the love of his life, Gloria Jean "Sammie" Furr, on a blind date. Three months later, on Christmas Day, they were married in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, beginning a remarkable partnership that would span fifty-seven years. Together they built a life centered on family and an unwavering commitment to one another. John S. also found great joy in the kitchen and at the grill. He was an excellent cook whose grilled meals became family favorites, and he took particular pride in his bread-making skills. He was also a lifelong and devoted fan of LSU Tigers football, faithfully cheering on the Tigers through the years. Whether preparing a meal for family or friends or gathering to watch LSU play, he expressed his love through generous hospitality and the simple pleasure of bringing people together. John S. was the epitome of a Southern gentleman. He was known for his kindness, integrity, quiet dignity, and gracious manner. He treated everyone with respect, valued hard work and honesty, and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him. John S. is survived by his three children, Charles Skipwith Smith of San Antonio, Texas; Stephen Douglas Skipwith of Greenville, South Carolina; and Eugenia Ann Smith of Vancouver, Washington; his grandchildren, Beth Ann Coleman, Benjamin Skipwith Smith, Olivia Adrienne Smith, Anna Gabriella Smith, Alex Daniel Smith, Axel Nicholas Smith, and Spencer Nathan Lodge; his great-grandchildren, Christian Tillman and Alex Tillman. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of fifty-seven years, Gloria Jean "Sammie" Smith, and by his daughter, Mary Adrienne Smith. A chapel service celebrating John S.'s life will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Funeral Home in Vancouver, Washington. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend.