Mr. John Frank Smith , Sr . , 87, of Winston Salem , NC departed this life surrounded by his loving family on January 13 , 2023 from health complications. He wa s a military veteran and a retired employee for RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company .

John Frank was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Grace Smith and daughter Ava Pegues.  He is survived by his loving wife and best friend Julia , their children, Gail, Kennon, Vanessa, John Jr, 8 grandchildren and 4 great- grandchildren .

John was a Deacon at First Baptist Church and served the community with Meals on Wheels . He was also an avid WSSU Ram s sports fan, and h e also loved bowling with friends in the bowling league.

Funeral Service s will be held at First Baptist Church 700 Highland Ave . Winston-Salem, NC 27101 on Thursday January 1 9, 2023. V isitation 11 am - 12 pm funeral service follows .

The interment will be held at Piedmont Memorial Gardens Cemetery 3663 Piedmont Memorial Dr . Winston Salem , NC 27107.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to First Baptist Church Scholarship Fund .