John Kirby Smootz was born October 13, 1922 in Conicville, Virginia. He passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 98 years old on July 27, 2021.

John, also known to many as "Little Man," will be dearly missed by all that knew him.

John joined the United States Army on September 12, 1944 and was honorably discharged April 27, 1946. He served during World War II as part of the L143rd Infantry Regime and earned the European African Middle Eastern Theatre Ribbon, the WWII Victory Ribbon, and the Army Occupation Medal (Germany). During his service he was classified as a PFC Rifleman and a Technician 4th Grade which was an automotive mechanic. Prior to his enlistment in the Army he worked on a 38 acre farm in Conicville, Virginia.

John was a steamfitter by trade and retired in 1984 at the age of 62. Before moving to Calvert County, he lived in Riverdale, Maryland in Prince Georges County.

John is predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Thelma Irene Smootz; his parents, Charles Gideon Smootz and May Lillie Hambleton Smootz; and, his siblings, Albert Birdie Smootz, Earl A. Smootz, Marie Mildred Barrick, Ruby Frye, Ray L. Smootz, and Bobby Eugene Smootz. He is also predeceased by his daughter Deborah A. Crossley.

He is survived by his children, Sharon Cline; Thomas Crossley and wife Suzanne; Ramona Moore and husband Russell; Betty Maher and husband Michael; and Charles Smootz and wife Deborah; 13 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Thank you to Calvert Hospice for providing support and services during his transition; a special thanks to his personal caregivers Cora, Catrina, and Rosy.

Visitation:

Saturday, August 7, 2021
12-1 PM
Rausch Funeral Home-Port Republic
4405 Broomes Island Road
Port Republic, Md. 20676

Service immediately following.