Johnny Smith
Mr. Johnny R. Smith age 65 of Fort Walton Beach, Florida passed away Saturday May 10, 2025 at the HCA Florida Fort Walton -Destin Hospital.
As the seasons transitioned from fall to winter, Johnny Ray Smith was born to the late Lorraine Packer and T.B. Smith on Thursday, 19 November 1959, in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
He was the 8th child, fifth son of Lorraine. At the age of 7, he started his education in the Okaloosa County public school system in Fort Walton Beach, FL. As a teenager with a dream of being in uniform, he became a follower of his two older brothers, Tommie and Timothy by enlisting in the Army with a commitment of four years; where he was stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany. While there, he met and married his former wife, Ingrid. After his tour of duty, he returned home to pursued a career as a concrete finisher that lasted over 10 years.
Johnny was baptized in the Church of Christ. Because of his belief in God, he knew through Jesus Christ, he could be saved.
He enjoyed fishing, planting flowers, and repairing bicycles for friends and himself. Also, he enjoyed listening to music with friends and family.
Johnny was a kind and caring person. We can attribute this to his training in the Army as medical nurse. He was a dependable helper to his brother, Timothy during his time of sickness. Johnny was the last person he was calling to help him before he passed the next day.
He was a collector of many things including dogs. As he transitioned, his puppy most likely was standing in the driveway waiting for his return.
He was preceded in his earthly life by his mother, Lorraine Packer, father, T.B. Smith. Oldest brother, CSMG (retired) Tommie E. Montgomery, brother, Timothy B. Smith, sister, Mrs. Annie L. Tisdale, and brother-in-law, James Tisdale.
His precious memories will forever be cherished by his daughter, Sequa Gamble, granddaughter. Deja; His loving siblings, brothers, Oscar L. Montgomery, Sr (Alfredia), (Huntsville, AL) and William E. Smith (Fort Walton Beach). Sisters, Martha A. Williams (Fort Walton Beach), Cheryl Y. Jones (Crestview), Joyce A. Packer (Mary Esther), and Maxine J. Turner (Fort Walton Beach), and sister-in-law, Yong Montgomery, (Coosada, AL). A plethora of nieces, nephews and beyond; all of which he held close to his heart.