John “Conehead” Smith

Mr. John Franklin Smith III, " Conehead" 61, of Grimes Circle, passed away on Tuesday, February 4 at Forsyth Medical Center.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm Sunday, February 16 at First Reformed United Church of Christ, by the Revs Elizabeth Horton and Ray Nance Howell IV.  The family will greet friends following the service in the church fellowship hall.  An interment will be held at the Lexington City Cemetery.

John was born August 24, 1963 in Davidson County to John Franklin Smith, Jr. and Joyce Jones Smith Phillips.  He was a graduate of Lexington High School and Western Carolina University.  He began his career at Lexington Barbecue at age 15 and continued to serve customers for more than 45 years. John was known for his gentle spirit, positive attitude, and loving embrace to all.  He was a member of First Reformed Church where he was active in the Property Commitee,Men's Brotherhood, Friendship Club, Meals on Wheels,and a committed supporter of the Saturday Lunch Ministry and Community Garden.  He was active in raising money for Cancer Services. John  enjoyed  music, sports, and traveling.  His father preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife, Susie Poetzinger Smith of the home; his son, Jonathan Kepley; his parents, Joyce and Thomas Phillips; his sister, Joy Smith Walser and husband, Vance; and his niece, Addie Walser.  He is also survived by his beloved Honeymonk Family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials should be made to First Reformed United Church of Christ, 104 E. Center St, Lexington NC 27292 or to Cancer Services of Davidson County, 25 W. 6th Avenue, Lexington NC 27292.