John Ivory Smith, Sr.

John Ivory Smith, Sr. was born to the late Mansfield and Annie Mae Mitchell Smith on November 25, 1934, in Cocoa Beach, Florida. He answered the call of his Master on November 27, 2019.

John was a graduate of Monroe High School, Cocoa Beach, Florida. He played baseball all over Daytona Beach. In 1955, he played for Daytona Beach Islanders, he struck out 320 batters in 253 innings. Later because a teammate was too old, John became a professional ballplayer in 1958. He was sent in as a relief pitcher and proceeded to strike out six successive batters. The scout signed him with the Cincinnati Organization (Red Sox’s). Smith a 23-year-old right-hander owned one of the best fastball pitches in the minors.

John was united in Holy Matrimony with Joan Harmon on October 9, 1969. He was an avid fisherman and most of all loved baseball, especially the Atlanta Braves. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He was co-owner of Smitty’s Lounge on Washington Street. He was employed at Thompson Funeral Home of West Columbia for over 38 years. His sudden passing will forever leave a void in the hearts of all who loved and knew him.

John was preceded in death by three brothers, Walter, Robert, and Oliver Smith.

Those left to forever cherish John’s precious memories and special times are his loving sons, Ronald, John (Kimerly) Smith of Columbia, SC; stepson, Samuel of the home; three daughters, Elaine of Easley, SC, Jean of Alvon, MA, and Becky of Lynn, MA; a niece reared in the home as his other daughter, JoAnn Simmons of Eastover, SC; two loving sisters, Ruth and Millie of Cocoa Beach, Fl; 15 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, a sister-in-law, Nellie Harmon of the home; and a host of special nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends.

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