J. P. Smith

J.P. Smith, a crane operator and life-long beloved member of Rockwood, went home to be with the Lord on February 18th at the remarkable age of 94.

J.P. is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Gladys Smith (Nelson); his children, Johnny Smith (Nancy) and Ann Baker (David); brothers, Preston Smith and Fritz Smith (Nan); granddaughter, Dr. Madison Baker; his beloved dog Bristol; nephew, Mike Smith; Lydia Vazquez along with her children; and several deeply loved nieces and nephews.

J.P. is preceded in death by his parents, Oliver and Lela Smith; sister, Ernestine Smith.

J.P. was born in Centerville, Tennessee on October 19, 1931, to Oliver and Lela Smith. Their family moved to Rockwood in his early childhood where he grew up and spent 85 wonderful years. He was a star athlete of the Rockwood Tigers football team and began his career as a crane operator for the Roane Iron Company in his early adulthood. On his 20th birthday, he eloped with and married Gladys Nelson in Rossville, Georgia. They raised a beautiful family of 2 children (Johnny and Ann) at their Wilder Ave home. He attended First United Pentecostal Church under Pastor Phillip Page and was an active, beloved member of his neighborhood and community.

In his later years, J.P. was still incredibly independent and could be found meticulously mowing his yard or working with his tractor helping others mow their fields. He loved sitting on his front porch with Bristol and a Coca Cola enjoying the day. His days were filled by chatting with neighbors over the fence and waving at old friends as they drove by. He delighted in driving his Ford pickup truck around Rockwood and to his son’s machining shop to tell stories about the good ole days of Rockwood. He made daily visits to his daughter’s home for a family dinner to fulfill his favorite role as Papaw to his adored granddaughter. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke you knew he meant what he said and he said what he meant.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, church, and community.

2 Timothy 4:7+8

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

Family and friends will meet on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Rockwood, Tennessee for Graveside services and interment with Rev. Phillip Page officiating. Evans Mortuary of Rockwood, Tennessee is honored to serve the family of Mr. J.P. Smith.