John F.. Smith, 77, husband of Joan (Callahan) Smith of Newport died Saturday, August 11, 2012 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Mr. Smith was born December 10, 1934 in Newport to William M. and Elizabeth (Martin) Smith,

He graduated from De La Salle Academy in 1952, Providence College in 1958 and Bridgewater State College in 1962. He was an Army veteran and past member of Wanumetonomy Golf and Country Club.

He worked for the Newport School Department for over thirty years as an English and Social Studies teacher and Guidance Counselor at Thompson Junior High and as a School Counselor with the Vocational Technical Center at Rogers High School. Later he was Director of Guidance at Rogers High School until his retirement in 1988.

Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of fifty-four years, Joan and six children, Sheila A. Sim of San Antonio, TX, Kathryn T. Almeida of Bristol, RI, Christine M. Seidner of Mundelein, IL, Ann Marie Martin of Newport, Michael J. Smith of Middletown, RI, Peter T. Smith of Middletown, RI and nine grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will take place Thursday, August 16, 2012 at 9am at Jesus Savior Church, 509 Broadway, Newport. Burial will be in St. Columba Cemetery in Middletown, RI.

In Lieu of flowers, donations in Mr. Smith’s memory may be made to Forest Farm Adult Day Services Activity Fund, 193 Forest Avenue, Middletown, RI or to Grand Islander Activity Fund, 333 Green End Avenue, Middletown, RI 02842.