Joseph Benjamin Smith
(November 19, 1933 – April 29, 2019)
Joseph Smith reunited with his wife of 62 years, Shirley, on April 29th. Joe was a man of honor and principle, but still tried to be tolerant to differences. He valued honesty, but tried to have patience with those who were not. He believed in service to God and to his Country, but could love someone even when their beliefs did not align. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who taught his family how to love and respect others. Perhaps Joe’s greatest legacy is the lifetime of memories, love, and values that he has left with his family—daughters: Carolyn Woods (Ken), Barbara Rocco (Gregg), and Tracey Smith, his 11 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.
Joe was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Smith; son, Joseph Smith; and great-grandson, Brody Rocco.
He was born in Tennessee and moved to Detroit, Michigan when he was 17; later enlisting in the Army, and stationed in Germany. Once home and retired from the Army, he and Shirley married in 1956 and he took a job as a Rigger, moving large structures and buildings throughout the city of Detroit.
Shirley and Joe raised their children in Detroit; however, his love for wide open spaces never waned, and he and Shirley retired to Byron, MI in the early 1990’s. In addition to farming his land, he enjoyed Bible study, hosting family parties, fishing, westerns, and Detroit sports. Joe will be deeply missed by his friends and family.
Visitation was held Friday, May 3, from 2:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Herrmann Funeral Home. A private family graveside was taking place on Saturday, May 4, at 1:00 p.m. at Woodmere Cemetery in Detroit. Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com
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