Bradley James Smith, 62, passed away on November 29, 2023, in Johnstown, Ohio. Brad was born on November 21, 1961, in Bluffton, Ohio. He was a loving father and husband who had a deep passion for the outdoors and his dogs.
Brad had a knack for tinkering in the garage, working on his cars, ATVs and various projects. He cherished visiting his old stomping grounds in Bluffton, especially to savor the delicious Kewpie burgers, in Lima. Brad's warm and kind-hearted nature endeared him to everyone he met. His passion for puns was unmatched.
Brad is survived by his beloved wife, Joy, five children, Quentin (Amanda Stewart) Smith, Haley (Justin) Latture, Caleb Smith, Kandice Alexander and Louis 'Bugga' Alexander. He also survived by his mother, Joyce Smith, mother-in-law, Judy Walburn, sister Judy Smith, brother Jason Smith, grand-kids Leighla Kinderman, Ximara Von Smith, and Jaxson Stewart. He also leaves behind cherished cousins. Brad's close family friends, Grant and Becky Peterson, were an integral part of his life.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Smith.
Brad graduated from Cory-Rawson High School in the class of 1980. He furthered his education at the Ohio Institute of Photography, earning an Associate's Degree in 1986. Brad's career as a photographer led him to work at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, and Dayton Children's Hospital, where he captured moments that touched the lives of countless families.
In his free time, Brad passionately supported the Dallas Cowboys, cared for his beloved dogs, and enjoyed music. Fond memories were created as a child when his parents and siblings took vacations in their Volkswagen Camper Bus and Station Wagon. He was able to continue the vacation tradition to places like Gettysberg, Hawaii and the Grand Canyon with his children later in life.
He had other wonderful memories with Joy and best friends Grant and Becky with the ATVs. Brad also found joy in watching the Bourne movies and the classic TV show MASH.
A memorial service to celebrate Brad's life will be held at Hill Funeral Home in Westerville, Ohio on December 7, from noon-2:00 p.m.
In honor of Brad, contributions can be made to Nationwide Children's Hospital in his name through their website: www.nationwidechildrens.org/giving/
