John Raymond Smith

January 01, 1970

Announcing the passing of John R Smith at the age of 94. Most people knew him as Jack Smith. As a young boy he voluntarily took on the task of providing for his younger brothers and sister until they were able to take care of themselves. He joined the US Navy in 1946 at the age of 17, just before WW2 ended, and was honorably discharged in 1948. In 1952 he married Marion Kappas and they were blessed with four children and lived a full rich life together for 65 years until Marion passed in 2017. Family was one of the most important parts of his life. He is survived by his children: Susan Davis, Cindy Lytle, Lynn Smith, John Smith, his grandchildren: Jeffery Lytle, Patrick Lytle, Sean Davis and Troy Davis, and his great-grandchildren: Cadence Lytle, Max Davis, Desmond Davis and Dashiel Davis. He has one living brother, Jarome Smith and his family.

Most notably Jack felt strongly about exercise and personal fitness. His love of fitness and sports was developed at an early age and continued well into his eighties. He was a founding member of the Northside YMCA where he lifted weights, played handball, ran miles on the track and through the streets the Northside of Pittsburgh. He also enjoyed particapating in a competitive bowling league. He loved the Northside “Y” so much that he got his children involved in their competitive swim team for many years. Jack was very active at the “Y” and with assisting his children and grandchildren in competitive sports well into his senior years of life.

His passing marks a milestone for both his family and friends. There will be a private, family only, visitation at the the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial in Regina Coeli Parish, Church of the Assumption Friday at 10:00a.m. Following the service his final resting place will be at the Northside Catholic Cemetery, where he will be buried with his beloved wife for eternity. He will be remembered by all of us. Arrangements by Devlin Funeral Home, Inc., Ross Twp,