John Joseph Smith

John Joseph Smith, 68, of New Paris, died Thursday, November 27, 2025 at The Waters of Wakarusa.

He was born October 27, 1957 in Goshen to Harry Dean and Carol Donnabelle (Zellinger) Smith.

Survivors include his partner, Carol Diane (Azbell) Smith; two daughters, Nicole Marie and Clarissa “Star” Cottey; a son, Ricky Smith; a nephew, Joe (Brenda) Smith; two nieces, Marti (Doug Brown) Eberson and Joy (Michael) Davis; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Lee Smith.

John was a dedicated employee, working for 30 years at Carriage Inc. in Millersburg. Outside of work, he pursued several passions. He was an avid train enthusiast and greatly enjoyed the outdoors, particularly camping and fishing. He was also a loyal supporter of local youth, serving on the pit crew for the Marching Band and Color Guard at Fairfield High School.

Friends may call Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home.

Cremation will take place after his visitation times at Yoder-Culp Crematory. Burial of his cremated remains will take place at a later date.