John Smith

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

John D. Smith, age 80 of Anderson, MO., went to be with his Lord & Savior on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, MO.

John was born on May 28, 1946, in Joplin, MO., the son of Lawrence and Alma (Franklin) Smith. He has been a lifetime area resident. John worked as a striper for MODOT for several years. He is a member of Patterson Heights Baptist Church. John enjoyed his time working on his farm, mowing, gardening, playing on his tractor, sitting on the front porch, watching the wildlife. And playing with his 90 lb. husky-shepherd mix dog, Molly. John was a life-long camper, he loved to take his family camping. He was very devoted to his family, especially his children, wife & grandchildren.

John had many sayings hi like to pass on to his family such as, “Never throw it away, you may need it someday,” “Call me when you get there and when you head back.” “Don’t let your gas indicator get below ½”, another saying was, “It just takes time.” 

He and his son talked daily at 0900 on the dot. John liked to share stories about his days growing up at his grandparents’ farm and the shenanigans that went on. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and church family.

He married Kathryn Ashing on March 3, 1969, she survives. Additional survivors include his son; Jeff Smith and his wife Stacy of Joplin, his daughter; Angela Ackerman of Joplin, two grandchildren; Chandler Smith and Hannah Ackerman, two great-grandchildren, Sammy and Silvia, three sisters; Edna, Ruth and Glenda, two brothers; Kenneth & Dennis, and many cousins, nephews, nieces & nephews.

Funeral services have been scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Mason-Woodard Chapel. Burial will follow at Cave Springs Cemetery in Sarcoxie, MO. Dinner will be provided by Warrens Branch Baptist Church and Patterson Heights Baptist Church at Warrens Branch, 9166 Antelope Rd., Seneca, MO. 64865. The family will receive friends during a time of visitation on Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.