John Putnam Smith

John Putnam "J.P." Smith, of Sylvania, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, January 13, 2024, peacefully surrounded by family in the comfort of his home. He was born on January 20, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Kenneth and Anna Smith.

J.P. attended Start High School, where he graduated in 1968. He proudly served in the Coast Guard Reserve, retiring as Lieutenant Commander. He also retired as Sergeant from the Toledo Police Department, where he was dedicated, hardworking, and respected. He had obtained his Bachelors degree from the University of Toledo. Prior to his retirement from the police department, he went to law school at night, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 1998. He continued working as an attorney for the next 25 years.

A man of faith, he was a lifelong and active member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church. His faith was very important to him and all aspects of his day to day life. J.P. was an avid collector of many things: train photos, stamps, and cars. He loved getting out on the golf course, traveling, his church, helping others, and above all, his family. The time spent together and the memories created will forever be missed by his loved ones. J.P.'s love, sense of humor, and infectious smile will forever be missed by those who knew him. This is not goodbye, but we will see you again!

Those left to forever cherish his memory are his loving wife, Diane M. Smith, whom he married on May 6, 1983; children, Lori (Jody) Smith, Jen (Mike) Murphy, Rob (Alicia) Smith, and Brian (Lisa) Bohlen; four-legged companion, Ricky; eight grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sister, Mary (Terry) Zeitner; brothers-in-law, David (Cheryl) Rajner, Allen (Lisa) Rajner, and Tom Fuller; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, J.P. was reunited with his sister, Dorothy McCarthy.

There will be a memorial service to honor J.P. on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11:00 am, at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 4030 Douglas Road, Toledo, Ohio 43613, with Pastor Melissa Steinecker officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Aldersgate United Methodist Church in J.P.'s memory.

To share a memory of J.P. or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.