John Garland Smith, ‘Big John’, 49, of Casper, Wyoming, Tragically Passed Away on June 24, 2024, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Strength, Honesty, and Perseverance
John Garland Smith, a loving father, husband, and devoted member of the Casper community, unexpectedly passed away on June 24, 2024, at the age of 49. Medical authorities suspect a heart attack or stroke as the cause of his sudden death. His family and friends are devastated by his untimely passing, remembering him as a pillar of strength and a shining example of determination and fortitude.
Born on April 1, 1975, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Consuelo (Davis) Smith and Michael J Smith, John was the second of four children. His height and larger-than-life personality earned him the nickname ‘Big John’ by high school. He went on to become a Journeyman Electrician and had a successful career at Modern Electric, working on projects across Wyoming and other states.
John’s greatest joy was his family, whom he cherished deeply. He married Destiny Goodspeed on September 19, 1997, and they had two children, Ethen and Cedar Smith. He was an exemplary father, always putting the needs of his family first. John’s love for his pets, particularly his border collies, Chevelle and Nova, was unmatched. He enjoyed daily hikes in Morad Park and spent countless hours outdoors, fly fishing and camping with his family.
In December 2017, John faced a significant challenge when he suffered a stroke, resulting in the loss of mobility on his right side. Despite this setback, he showed remarkable determination and perseverance, working tirelessly at Elkhorn Valley Rehabilitation Hospital to regain his strength. His faith and commitment to Hilltop Baptist Church were a source of comfort and inspiration to those around him.
John’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His family, including his wife, Destiny; two sons, Ethen and Cedar; his mother, Consuelo N Smith; three sisters, Micole, Meghan, and Stephanie; and four nephews and one niece, will deeply miss him. His memorial service will be held at Hilltop Baptist Church on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
John’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. His strength, honesty, and perseverance will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, John Garland Smith, your impact on our lives will never be forgotten.
John’s family and friends will gather to celebrate his life and legacy at Hilltop Baptist Church, a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to his community. His love for his family, pets, and the outdoors will always be remembered, and his determination in the face of adversity will continue to inspire those who knew him.
As the community comes together to mourn the loss of John Garland Smith, they will also celebrate his life and the impact he had on those around him. His passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones.
John’s memorial service will be a fitting tribute to his life, with friends and family sharing stories and memories of his strength, honesty, and perseverance. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hilltop Baptist Church or the Elkhorn Valley Rehabilitation Hospital, two organizations that were close to John’s heart. John Garland Smith will be deeply missed, but his impact on our lives will never be forgotten.
