Jess R. Smith

Jess R. Smith, age 51, of Dayton, passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2023.

He was born October 11, 1971 in Dayton, Ohio to Harry C. (Sandra L. Edwards) Smith, Jr., and grew up in Drexel.

Jess was a passionate, dedicated worker for over 25 years at South Dayton Gutter and Spouting, as well as many years with DAP Global Inc.

He was preceded in death by his parents Harry C. Smith, Jr. and Sandra L. Weaver, his brothers Billy Rodgers, Reggie Rodgers, Harry Smith III, his grandson Brayden Johnson, his grandfather Jack Barr, his nephew Harry Moore, the mother of his children Rebecca Barr Spoonemore along with his good friends from South Dayton Gutter and Spouting Margie Sowers, John Szucs and Brock Handwerker.

Jess is survived by the love of his life and the best hearted woman he knew, Denise Bowers of Dayton; his children, Jess Smith, Jr. of Xenia, Krista (Michael Johnson) Smith of Xenia, Savannah (Gunnar Ruby) Barr Smith of Fairborn, Lacey Smith of Dayton; his step-daughter, Kara (Taylor Jones) Bowers of Dayton, and his grandsons, Landen Smith of Xenia and Joziah Jones of Dayton. He is also survived by his sister, Reva (Marshall) Moore of Dayton; his mother-in- law Nellie Barr; nieces, Laura Moore, Sandra (Thomas) Holmes, Brittanie Smith. Audrey Moore; nephews, Kalep Rodgers, Michael Rodgers, Aaden Smith, Austin Smith, Tommy Smith special friends Dan and Pam Miller, along with numerous other friends.

Jess loved fishing, camping and being outdoors. He was a die hard Raiders fan, and enjoyed driving "old school" cars. He was a devoted family man and a very good dad. Spending time with his family was most important to him, whether it was just hanging out or going to a Dayton Dragons game. He ended every conversation or time with his family and friends with "I love you". Jess had the gift of gab and liked to voice his opinion. He never met a stranger and made friends easily. He was funny and goofy, and had a very big, caring heart. Jess' was a life well lived, he touched many people's lives along his journey. He will always be remembered as a soulful person with unconditional and compassionate love for all.

The family would like to thank Dr. Brandon Cutler and Dr. Paul Kreinbrink and staffs for the wonderful care they provided Jess.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 2, 2023 from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm at Newcomer Kettering Chapel, 3940 Kettering Blvd. Burial will follow at Bearcreek Cemetery.

Jess's service will be livestreamed at the scheduled service time. Click Here to view the service.

Many family friends are asking how they can help Jess' family, please consider a donation to his family. Envelopes provided at the funeral home.

To share a memory of Jess or to leave a special message for his family, please click the 'Share Memories' button above.