Johnny Smith Obituary

Johnny Smith was a huge influence on me when I was learning jazz guitar. I always thought of Johnny as the most elegant and refined player of the plectrum guitar. My one personal conversation with him (by phone) confirmed that he was the warm and personable guy that we have always heard about.
His legacy as the premier maestro of the electric?plectrum guitar will live on through his wonderful recordings.

When Tal Farlow passed away Johnny wrote this "GOD never put a nicer soul on this planet than my dear friend Tal Farlow". We've lost another nicer soul in our friend Johnny Smith. Steve Braun, Mankato Minnesota

Johnny Smith was always the most polished, and sophisticated guitarist in the business. And no one played any better. I loved his playing...
Rest in Peace, Johnny...
Rowland Harris

My father taught me to love Johnny Smmith's guitar playing in the 60s. I feel like I've lost a family friend. Peace, Mr. Smith.

A wonderful neighbor on Solano--great guy

David Johnson/Cascade

While I know nothing of classical/jazz guitar I'll always remember Johnny Smith's "Walk, Don't Run" as an anthem of 60's rock. I was always amazed that we had such a talented and famous guitarist in our community. Each time our toes start tapping to "Walk, Don't Run", we remember Johnny.

I miss my friend. He showed me how to be a real gentleman. He and Sandy had such an impact on my family and I am so thankful they came into our lives. I am blessed to know all of the you!
God speed my friend.

He was world famous, but for us he was "Uncle Johnny". We will miss his stories, playing pool at the holidays, and his generous nature. Our warmest wishes to John, Dave, and Kim.
With love, Jeanne Smith, Andrew and Taylor Welch.

With our deepest condolences.
John 11: 1-44

Johnny was a gentle soul and as nice a person as you could ever meet. I met him during a period when I provided his mother's medical care. It was a treat to see him working with his apron on at Rice Music on So. Eighth St. I felt a little sheepish when I bought an $88 guitar from him but that certainly was no issue to him. A most memorable event was when in 2005 when B.B.KING somewhat abruptly stopped his playing in mid-concert at the Pine's Peak Center in Colorado Springs to reminisce a bit and to say a few words about a special person. He wanted the audience to know that even though he had never met the man, they had corresponded by telephone and email and that Johnny Smith lived right here in Colorado Springs and " is one of the finest guitar players that ever lived". That acknowledgment gave me goose bumps. A quality human being has passed on and I feel very proud and humbled to have know him.
Richard J. DuCharme M.D.

Kim and family,
So sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I have many good memories of visiting his shop on 8th Street in Colo. Spgs. when I was in school. May he rest in God's arms forever.

Peace to your family during this time of grief and sadness. I have such wonderful memories of the time we spent with you and Sandy....

While I did not know Mr. Smith personally, I got my musical beginnings taking private clarinet lessons in his store on South 8th St. I will be forever grateful.