John Smith Obituary

John Francis Smith passed away early Tuesday morning on May 27th, 2025, at the Oneida Hospital Rehabilitation facility.

John was the only child of John W. and R. Helena McSperit Smith. He was born on July 6th, 1938, in Rome, New York. A 1956 graduate of Camden High School, John went on to graduate from Rochester Business Institute (1957) and Niagara University (1961).

After college, he proudly enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country at Fort Knox, Kentucky is a variety of positions - but most notably as an English instructor for his fellow soldiers.

On October 14th, 1967, John was united in marriage to Mary Marcia Ellison at St. Paul's Roman Catholic church in Rome, NY. It was a blessed union of almost 58 years. In 1972, John and Mary purchased the former Furbush Insurance from Betty Furbush. They enjoyed 36 successful years as insurance agents to family, friends, and businesses in Central New York - selling the business and retiring in 2008.

A true sportsman, John was an accomplished basketball player - continuing his playing days after high school by playing one year each at both Rochester Business Institute and Niagara University. He was also an active baseball manager, coaching teams in the Camden Little League, Babe Ruth, and American Legion leagues. He was also a live-long downhill skier and snowmobiler.

John enjoyed numerous roles in his community. He stressed the importance of giving back to help set a foundation for the future. His roles included: Past President of the Camden Chamber of Commerce, Past Commander of American Legion Moran Post #66, a member of the Whitestown Chapter of Forty and Eight, Past American Legion County Commander for Oneida County, and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He was elected an Oneida County Legislator (Republican - 5th District) and served in this role for 13 years. He was also a co-founder of the World War II Veterans Recognition team - providing annual breakfasts to WWII veterans as well as numerous bus trips to Washington, D.C. These activities provided these heroes with the opportunity to see the WWII memorial and enjoy the celebrations of their outstanding military services.

John is survived by his wife, Mary, and his children: son Matt (Katy) Smith of Round Rock, TX and daughter Maureen (Mike) Entelisano of Rome, NY. His grandchildren include Connor (Rayne) Smith of San Antonio, TX, Paige Smith of Georgetown, TX, Garrett Smith of Anaheim, CA, and Derek Entelisano of Rome, NY. His great-grandchild is Landon Smith of San Antonio, TX.

Calling hours will be held at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, 9464 State Rt 13, Camden, NY, on Sunday, June 1st, from 2-5:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, June 2nd, 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church in Camden, NY. Interment will take place in St. John's Cemetery.

As an alternative to flowers, friends are welcome to make a donation in John's memory to the Camden Volunteer Fire Department, 14 Church Street, Camden NY 13316 in John's name.

You may read the obituary and send a message of sympathy at www.nunnandharper.com.