Marion Funeral Home

Friday, July 26, 2019 at the Red Oak Memory Care in Canton. CANTON-John Smith, 89, of Canton, passed away at 6:08 a.m. on Friday, July 26, 2019 at the Red Oak Memory Care in Canton. He was born on July 14, 1930 in Canton to Lyle and Mabel (Hicks) Smith. He married Jeri Lou (Wason) Emerson on Dec. 31, 1961 at the First Presbyterian Church in Canton. She preceded him in death on Oct. 6, 2015. His parents and one sister, Winefred Wicevich, also preceded him in death.Surviving are his son, Ronald Gene Smith (Susan Jean); two grandchildren, Chad A. Smith and Jennifer Lyn (Smith) Regan (Rob); and five great-grandchildren, Alex Ean Smith, Marley Jane Smith, Lily Ann Smith, Kennedi Faith Regan and Carsyn Rae Regan.John was a member of the Evangelical Free Church of Canton for the last 10 years and attended the First Presbyterian Church of Canton for over 45 years where, as a member, he served as Deacon, Elder and Trustee.John was a graduate of Canton High School and attended classes at Bradley University.He was part owner of Atlas Camera Center in Canton from 1954 to 1977 and then was employed by the Central Illinois Hearing Aid Center for 14 years. He retired in 1992.He served in the US Army as a photographer, stationed in Germany, from 1951-53.John was a member of the Lions Club - 27 years, Masonic Lodge, T.P.A., Toastmasters, Friendship Festival Board, American Legion, former director of Chamber of Commerce Board, volunteer at Graham Medical Clinic and Fishers of Men. He loved to bowl, read and travel, visiting all 50 states as well as many foreign countries. John loved life and people, especially his family.Services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 30, 2019 at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home and Crematory in Canton where visitation will be Monday night from 5-7 p.m. The Rev. Matt Spangler will officiate. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Canton. Memorials can be made to Evangelical Free Church or Red Oak Memory Care. To leave online condolences, please visit www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com. ...