Seventy-seven years ago, on August 1, 1947, John Alex Smith was born in the town of St. George, South Carolina, to the late Mr. Alfred and Mrs. Ada Joyner-Smith. Affectionately known as "Big John" to friends and "Mean John" to the many young athletes he mentored and coached. John lived a life marked by strength, love, and deep dedication to his community. On July 1, 2025, he departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of service, mentorship, and enduring love.

John was educated in the public school system in Summerville, SC and attended Alston Elementary, Middle and High School, proudly graduating with the Class of 1966. As a gifted athlete, he played both football and basketball for the Alston Tigers. The Alston Class of 1966 became more than classmates – they became a family. He cherished the lifelong friendships he formed during those years. He remained in close contact with many of his classmates and enjoyed taking trips, doing excursions, attending reunions and gatherings that celebrated their lasting bond. He retired from Piggly Wiggly Co-Op in 2008 after more than 30 years of hard work and commitment. In the 1980s and early 1990s, John could be found on the sidelines or in the dugout at Northwoods Recreation Park, where he coached the Bulldogs for football, Team Coca- Cola for baseball as well as basketball. Known as "Mean John" by his players — a nickname worn with pride — he had a firm approach that earned him lifelong respect from the countless youth he mentored. In most recent years and on most Fridays, John could be found at Matt's Barber Shop where they would talk about sports and current affairs. John was a passionate supporter of local athletics, especially high school sports. When he wasn't rooting for his grandchildren, he was supporting and representing the Summerville Green Wave teams over the years. He was also rather fond of the SC Lady Gamecocks Basketball Team.

John will be remembered for his larger-than-life spirit, deep loyalty, and unwavering love for his family, friends and community. Whether through a phone call with a high school classmate or an encouraging word from the sidelines, he made a lasting impression on all who knew him.

John was baptized by Reverend Larry W. Whaley and became a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church in 2009 where he was an active member and enjoyed events such as the Homecoming Ceremony and the church anniversary. He served in the Men's Ministry. His legacy lives on in every life he touched.

He was preceded in death by his former wife Delores "Shorty" Smith; their beloved son, Jarvis Alex Smith; and his siblings Kimmie Smith-Bolger, Alfred Smith Jr., Joseph Smith, and Ruthel Smith.

He leaves behind his devoted fiancé Robin Rawls; a daughter Shawndrika Smith-Trawick (Adrian); a pseudo-son Thomas McElveen (Hollie); nieces Betty Bolger, Kathy Bolger, Josephine Crook, Reeveise Bolger-Smith (Terry), Angerine Rudd (Anthony), Diane Hall and Rose Mary Bolger Hudson; nephews Harold Bolger, Odell Scarborough and Charles Bolger (Mona Lisa); grandchildren Chase and Wyllow; pseudo-grandchildren Jordan, Jeffery and Justin; and a host of great nieces, nephews and cousins.

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