John J.U. Smith, 66, died December 21, 2023, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born December 24, 1956, in Wichita, to John and Delores (Olmstead) Smith.

John attended Eureka High School and then joined the United States Army, where he served for three years. He was a sheriff deputy for Greenwood County and then worked for 25 years as a correctional officer for El Dorado Correctional Facility. John retired as the director of enforcement, apprehension, and investigations for Kansas State Correctional Facilities. He loved the "cowboy lifestyle". John enjoyed leatherwork and making bits and spurs, he even had some of his pieces featured in a book, "Bits & Spurs: Motifs, Techniques  and Modern Makers". More than anything, he loved his family.

John is survived by: daughters, Arianna Hoskinson (Nick), Burrton, Amanda Pulley, Texas; stepdaughter, Mycal Miles; grandchildren, Kash and Ryett Hoskinson, Emery and Elodie Pulley; sisters, Deb Thornton (Bill), Madison, Millie Bergstrom (Bruce); and stepmother, Joyce Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Thomas Hood Smith; and stepdaughter, Aerin Conn.

Memorial service will be 10 am Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Elliott Mortuary. A private family burial will take place at a later date. Friends may sign the book from 9 am to 5 pm Thursday and Friday, at Elliott Mortuary. Those wishing to view the service online can find a link for the livestream in John's obituary on the Elliott Mortuary website the day of his service.

Click here to view service

Arrangements made with Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.