John Mason Smith, born August 7, 1932 near Wellborn, Florida, departed this life on January 16, 2021 at Crystal River Health and Rehabilitation Center. He is survived by his devoted wife of almost 66 years, Lora Smith; eldest brother, Wilson F. "Buck" Smith; three children, Lynn (Lorrie) Smith, Mona Smith and Dean (Diane) Smith; five grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. He was a continuous member of Ramona Park Church for 50 years. Private services will be held in his honor.

John, also known as Jake, Smitty and J.M., was outgoing, friendly and hospitable. He was always ready to lend a helping hand and give a word of advice with a joking spirit. He went into the US Army when he was 20 years old and came out of the service in 1954 when he met Lora Saylor on November 23. They were inseparable; they had a date every day except on her birthday and Christmas Day. Their family quickly grew; they had four children, including a baby girl, Lisa, who passed away in infancy.

John was very proud of his family. He found it humorous that of their five grandchildren, the four granddaughters enjoy a rare steak and cheer for the Gators – like their grandfather, while the youngest, the only grandson, enjoys his steak well done and cheers for the Seminoles.

Raised on a farm, John was a hard-working man, who always had a job except for one week. He managed several Gulf Service Stations. He was a Gulf Life Insurance Salesman and retired after 25 years. He worked with Rhodes Brothers and flipped houses as part of his retirement.

The family will miss him dearly, but, mourn with the comfort that they will be reunited in the presence of God. Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME