Joseph “Joe” William Smith Obituary: A Life of Service, Family, and Dedication in Aurora, Indiana
Joseph William “Joe” Smith, age 95, of Aurora, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at The Waters of Dillsboro.
He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and community member whose life reflected service, hard work, and quiet dedication.
Early Life and Background
Joe was born on May 14, 1931, in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, to Stanley and Martha (Powell) Smith.
He grew up with strong values of responsibility, discipline, and community—qualities that would define his entire life.
Military Service
Joe proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War.
Following his service, he remained connected to fellow veterans as a member of the Lawrenceburg American Legion Post #239.
His military service was a meaningful part of his identity and life story.
Career and Work Life
Joe retired after many years as a maintenance supervisor at Jewish Hospital.
He was known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and ability to keep operations running smoothly.
Along with his professional career, Joe and his wife Shirley were also entrepreneurs, owning Paint-n-Putter on Second Street in Aurora before later operating it from their home.
Faith, Community, and Service
Joe was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Farmers Retreat.
He also gave his time to the Dillsboro Food Pantry, reflecting his commitment to helping others in his community.
His life was deeply rooted in service—both in faith and in action.
Hobbies and Personal Interests
Joe enjoyed simple but meaningful hobbies throughout his life.
He especially loved:
model trains
flying model airplanes
fishing
hunting in Canada
These hobbies reflected his patience, curiosity, and love for the outdoors.
Family and Loved Ones
Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley (Bauer) Smith, who passed on August 29, 2023.
He is survived by:
his son, Thomas “Tom” (Diane) Smith of Osgood
his daughter, Jenna “Janie” Atkinson of South Carolina
his sister, Penny (Tom) Richason
his niece, Shelley Johnson
grandchildren Jillian (Jack) Theuerling and Dylan (Liz) Werner
great-grandchild Lark Michael
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Martha Smith; sons Michael, Rusty, and Dan Smith; granddaughter Alyssa Atkinson; sister Ruth Nelson; and son-in-law Allen Atkinson.
Service Information
A Celebration of Life will be held from 10:00–11:00 AM on Monday, May 25, 2026, at St. John Lutheran Church in Farmers Retreat, Indiana.
Service will follow at 11:00 AM with Rev. Jared Tucher officiating.
Burial will take place at St. John Lutheran Cemetery with military rites provided by the Dillsboro American Legion Post #292.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Lutheran Church.
Funeral Home Information
Arrangements are entrusted to Filter-DeVries-Moore Funeral Home, Dillsboro, Indiana.
Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.fitterdevriesmoore.com
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Legacy and Remembrance
Joseph “Joe” William Smith will be remembered for his quiet strength, his dedication to family, and his lifelong service to his country and community.
His life reflected commitment, humility, and care for others, leaving behind a legacy carried forward by his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him.
