John D. Smith

Col(ret) John D. Smith, 91, of Harvest, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on February 11, 2025. JD was born on August 1, 1933, to Lillie Dorning Smith and Leamon C. Smith in Harvest, Alabama.

He grew up on the family farm alongside his older brother, Carlos Allen Smith. A gifted athlete, JD attended Florence State University (now the University of North Alabama) on a double athletic scholarship for baseball and football, earning four varsity letters. While in college, he met the love of his life, Mary Marguerite Gresham, and the two eloped, beginning a marriage that would last 70 years until Marguerite’s passing in December 2024.

Upon graduating in May 1956, JD was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Army, embarking on a distinguished military career. He served two combat tours in Vietnam as an infantry officer and was awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star with Valor, and the Meritorious Service Medal for his bravery and leadership. He was selected to the prestigious Command and General Staff College, where he led critical national projects, including work on the nation’s Bicentennial Celebration Committee and the inauguration of President Jimmy Carter. After 24 years of honorable service, JD retired from the Army on August 31, 1980. JD was a lifelong learner, earning a master’s degree in business management from Michigan State University and another in public policy from the University of Oklahoma.

After retiring from the military, he and Marguerite returned home to Harvest, where he began a second career in insurance sales, ensuring his community was well protected. He found great fulfillment in helping others and remained dedicated to serving his family, friends, and neighbors. For the last 30 years of his life, JD lovingly cared for his parents, his family, and his lifelong friends while enjoying the farm where his journey began. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, remembered for his unwavering integrity, selflessness, and deep commitment to those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marguerite, his parents, and his brother, Carlos.

JD is survived by his children, Sharon Turman (Kenneth) of Atlanta, GA, and Phillip D. Smith (Lesley) of Charlotte NC; grandchildren, Jeremy Turman (Amber), Ryan Smith, Diana Mantilla (David), Meredith Smith, Lily Turman, and Steele Smith; and great grandchildren, Jackson Turman, Holden Turman, and Sophia Mantilla.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Spry Funeral Home of Huntsville, where the family will receive friends Saturday, February 15, from 10:00am until 10:45 am.  A funeral service will follow at 11:00am in Spry Funeral Home's Chapel with Harlan Turnman officiating . Interment will take place at Tuck Cemetery in Harvest with a graveside service at 2:00pm on Saturday. 

Pallbearers include Mitchell Dorning, Ryan Smith, Meredith Smith, Tyler Cox, Lily Turman, and Steel Smith.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wounded Warriors Charity in JD’s memory. John D. Smith’s legacy of service, love, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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