Joseph Edison Smith

Joseph Edison Smith, 69, known to many as Joe or Joey, passed away on September 27, 2023, in Wadsworth, Ohio. He was born on July 12, 1954, in Akron, Ohio. Joe was a man who was kind to everyone he met, filled with incredible strength and wisdom. He was always the go-to person if anyone needed advice. Despite facing health challenges for years, Joe remained positive throughout his life.

Joe is survived by his daughters, Jennifer (Josh) Anderson and Cheryl (John) Hopkins, and his son, Brian (Manilyn) Smith. He is also survived by his brother, Randy (Risa) Smith, his sister, Cynthia Medlen, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, and friends. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Barbara "Joanne" Smith, Aunt Bettie, Uncle Rocky Galloway, and many other beloved family members and friends.

Joe was a proud graduate of Manchester High School and furthered his education at the University of Akron, where he earned his associates degree in accounting and business management. He dedicated many years of his career to Risk International until his health issues led him to retirement.

A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for most of his life, Joe held numerous callings within the church. His most cherished role was serving as the regional coordinator for the addiction recovery program. Joe had a genuine love for all those he came in contact with while leading that program, as he helped people overcome their addictions. He often said he felt the strongest spiritual connection during this service.

In his free time, Joe loved three things: the gospel, his family (especially his grandkids), and sports. He spent countless hours teaching his grandchildren, especially in baseball and basketball. Joe never missed any of their games, band concerts, or cheerleading performances. He enjoyed reminiscing with his lifelong friends about his football days at Manchester High School and his experiences playing church basketball. He also remained involved in sports in his younger years by refereeing basketball games and attending Manchester football games until the last year of his life.

Services to honor and celebrate Joe's life will be held on October 6th, 2023, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 735 N. Revere Rd, Akron, Ohio 44333. The viewing will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by the service from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cox Funeral Home in Barberton, Ohio, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

The world has lost a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many. Joe's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him. May he rest in eternal peace.

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