Prairie State Wire

John K. Smith, affectionately known as "Buzz," "Cap'n John," and "Papa," peacefully passed away on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Morris Hospital. Born on November 25, 1933, in Plainfield, IL, to the late Dale and Wilma Smith, John served on the USS Loeser in the US Navy and later settled in Morris after marrying Judith Cryer in 1957. Together, they had two sons, Terry and Randall.

John was known for his love of music and was a member of the barbershop quartet "The Castabouts." He was a proud supporter of the Morris Redskins football team and attended all of his family's events. John was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and The Ancient Free and Accepted Masons Mazon Lodge 826. He retired in 1999 from Pipefitters Local 597.

He is survived by his sons Terry (Lisa) Smith and Randall (Robin) Smith, grandsons Matthew and Jacob Smith, brother Steve Wines, sister-in-law Joyce, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 11th, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, with funeral services on Wednesday, March 12th, at 10:00 AM at UC Davis-Callahan Funeral Home. Donations can be made to We Care of Grundy County or the donor's choice.

To offer condolences or share memories, visit the online guestbook at www.ucdaviscallahan.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to UC Davis-Callahan Funeral Home in Morris.

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