John Henry Smith was born in Poplar Bluffs, Mo., March 24, 1871, and passed away at his home in Osawatomie, Wednesday, March 1, 1944 at the age of 72 years, 11 months and 6 days. He was united in marriage to Frances Ellen Henry at Parker Kas., December 25, 1893. To this union 11 children were born; Edgar William, Osawatomie; Roy Lee, Parker; Cloie May Wheeler, Fort Scott; Viola Mattie Hoskins, Los Angeles; Jesse Belle Morgan, Somerset; Albert Dallas, Bartlesville, Okla.; Ada Marie Day, Blue Mound; Herbert John, Ringsted, Iowa; Floyd Raymond, Ottawa; Irvin Frank, Army, Camp Butner, N.C.; and Edna B. of the home. He also leaves to mourn his passing 31 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends.

He moved to Parker when a young man of 16, and had lived there and surrounding communities, spending most of his time as a farmer, until the past few years which he spent in Osawatomie.

He was a kind and loving father, always ready to help others when in need. He was happy when he could lift the burden from the hearts of others and make them happy. He made the confession and was baptized into Christ at Parker when a young man, becoming a member of the Church of Christ.

Funeral services were held Sunday, March 5, at 2:00 o'clock from the Montayne Funeral Home, conducted by C.O. Wilson, pastor of the Christian Church. Burial was in the Osawatomie Cemetery.

The Osawatomie Graphic-News, Thursday, March 9, 1944

Submitted by David Smith