John Wayne Smith

John Wayne Smith, beloved father and brother, passed away August 10, 2015. He entered this world on March 13, 1937 in Bassett, VA, born to the late John Russell and Mattie Smith. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Aloisia Smith; stepchildren, Linda Hamill and Daniel Hamill, and granddaughter, Sabrina. He is survived by his sister, Carolyn Forbes; stepdaughter, Eva Hamill; stepson, Anthony Hamill; grandchildren, Denise Hamill, Gary Santillanes and wife Heather, Feliz Haskie and husband Ross, and John Santillanes. John is also survived by his nephews, Lee Forbes and wife Renae, John Forbes, and Jason Forbes, as well as his great-grandchildren, great-niece and great-nephews. After leaving Bassett High School, John served in the Air Force as a jet-engine mechanic until 1978. He met his wife, Lisa, in Germany. They traveled the world together, ending with a 9-year sojourn in Saudi Arabia, while John was employed with McDonnell Douglas and BDM. Retiring from travels and settling in New Mexico, John worked for the US Postal Service in Albuquerque. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at FRENCH - Westside, followed by interment at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 12:45 p.m. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. FRENCH - Westside 9300 Golf Course Rd NW 505-897-0300