John Elder Smith, 87, of Indiana, PA, formerly of Blacklick Twp., passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, in St. Andrew’s Village, Indiana, PA.
The son of Elder Clair and Eva L. (Shields) Smith, he was born September 29, 1938, in Blairsville, PA.
John graduated from Blairsville High School, Class of 1956.
He worked for International Harvester, Indiana, and Davis Trucking, retiring in October 2000 from both companies.
John was a faithful member of the Hopewell Church of Blacklick Township, Kyler Fork Hunting Club, United Mine Workers of America #2364, Ernest, and the National Rifle Association.
Surviving are three sons, Jeffrey C. (Debbie) Smith of Chester, VA, Eric J. (Mary Elaine) Smith of Penn Run, and Jason A. (Shannon) Smith of Billings, MT; one daughter, Sandra R. Smith (Susan Turrell) of Cannonsburg; five grandchildren, Ben, Samuel, Grace, Robert and Joe; three great grandchildren, Koen, Malachi, and Silas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife of 64 years, Ruth I. (McCrea) Smith on November 21, 2022, his brother, Richard Smith and his sister, Jean Rook.
Family and friends will be received on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St., Blairsville, PA. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 11th at 1:30 PM in the funeral home, with Pastor Dawn Krishart officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like memorial contributions made in John’s memory to Jeff Smith Ministries, 6420 Glebe Point Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23838.
Interment will be in Blairsville Cemetery, Blairsville, PA.
To view the online obituary, sign the guest book or send condolences, visit www.shoemakerfamilyservices.com.
