J.M. Smith born May 23, 1939 departed this life on Wednesday January 25, 2023 at his residence in Lost Creek, Kentucky being 83-years old.  J.M. was born in Lost Creek, Kentucky the son of the late Everett Smith and the late Viola Campbell Smith.  Other than his parents, J.M. was also preceded in death by his Son, Michael Joe Smith; Step-Son, Kenneth Hurt; Brothers, Claude & Burchell Smith; Sisters, Waveline Hill and Geraldine Smith.  J.M. was a Veteran of the U.S. Army honorably serving for 10 plus years.  J.M. was a entrepreneur, was the owner of Hazard Fire & Safety Equipment Company, was the founding Chief of the Lost Creek Volunteer Fire Department, an avid fisherman, and was a devoted husband, loved his children, grandchildren and family.  J.M. was proud to have been part of the Gideons for years, actively serving to distribute bibles to the community.

J.M. Smith leaves the following relatives to cherish his memory: Wife, Joyce Smith of Lost Creek, KY; Daughter, Lisa Conn & Stephen of Richmond, KY; Son, Barrett Smith of Hazard, KY; Step-Son, Norman Hurt & Andrea of Louisville, KY; Brother, Melvin Smith of Lost Creek, KY; 6-Grandchildren, 7-Great Grandchildren; also a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends survive.

Visitation for J.M. Smith will be conducted on Friday January 27, 2023 at the Engle-Bowling Funeral Home from 6:00 – 9:00 P.M.  Funeral Services will be conducted on Saturday January 28, 2023 at 12:00 P.M. at the Engle-Bowling Funeral Home with Pastor A.D. "Pete" McGee and Tommy Fields officiating.  The Interment will follow in the Mt. Zion Cemetery located at Lost Creek, Kentucky.  Military Rites will be conducted by the Hazard-Perry County D.A.V. Chapter #64.  In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice or your local Volunteer Fire Department.