Russell Jay Smith JULY 20, 1930 – JULY 16, 2022 Flushing, Michigan

Russell (Russ) Jay Smith of Flushing, Michigan, was promoted to glory surrounded by his family at 5:55pm on Saturday, July 16, 2022.
Russell was born in Clio, MI, on July 20, 1930, to Roy and Isabel Smith. The family later moved to Flushing, where he graduated from Flushing High School in 1949. Russ served in the US Army at Emmendorfer Air Force Base in Anchorage, AK and rose to the rank of corporal and was honorably discharged in 1954. Upon returning to Flushing, Russ resumed his employment at AC Spark Plugs, now as a billing clerk. Before retiring in 1990, he received numerous awards for suggestions on workplace improvements.

Russell met JoAnn Hill shortly after his discharge from the Army, marrying the love of his life in August 1955. In 1958 they welcomed a son (Michael) and in 1960, a daughter (Jeannette). In 1961, Russ and JoAnn began attending Mayfair Bible Church, devoting himself to serving Christ first by teaching teen boys then primary age children along with JoAnn. Through words of encouragement, prayer, hearty handshakes and serious hugs, Russ touched the lives of many people.

In 1980 and 1982 their family expanded due to the marriage of their children. Later 5 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren were added to their family.

Russell is preceded in death by his parents, Roy J and Isabel H Smith, his siblings; Roy, Bernard, Bill, Ruth (Wright) and John.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, JoAnn, brother; Robert, children;Michael (Kimberly), Jeannette (Daniel Neumann). Grandchildren; Nicole (Andreas Maier), Megan (Douglas Evans), Devon, Lucas (Carmen) Neumann, and Jillian (Bryce Hauglie). Great grandchildren include Ari, Tatum, Reuben and Evander Maier, Jemma and Corban Evans, Archie Welling.

Visitation and service to be held on Thursday, July 21, at Mayfair Bible Church, 5339 W Pierson Rd, Flushing MI, visitation beginning at 11:30, Celebration of Life will be at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Mayfair Bible Church designated for missions, mortgage burning or general fund.

Interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly MI, Friday, July 22, at 2pm.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ReigleFuneralHome.com for the Smith family.