Louis J. Smith

A grounded realist, Louis spent 18 years as a metal finisher at Hope’s Windows in Jamestown. He took great pride in his work as a metal artist, diligently executing all that he did in life. Louis found hard work to be a way of life; moreover, he was a fantastic carpenter and helped others build and remodel to no end.

John, as he was known by his family, was a man who lived out his own life’s art project. He brought ethereal energy into the world and cared deeply for it. Whether it was remaining protective of his family, selflessly living for others, caring for his chickens, ducks, and other animals, or planting trees and flowers and nurturing their growth, John went without to be sure others were satisfied.

Nature’s attraction was recognized and visualized through art at a very young age for Louis. The genetic footprint for appreciating the earth came from his maternal grandfather. Planting marigolds and embracing his golden thumb blossomed from there. Paintings, drawings, photographs, and wood carvings alike are lasting creations that will speak for Louis’ eternal aesthetic sense.

Many knew Louis as a friend in his living for others, yet he was an innate loner by choice. Despising the center of attention, Louis found peace in the solitude of watching redwing blackbirds and bald eagles on his property amidst the dozens of trees he fostered. Still, to his family, Louis’ humorous demeanor, albeit crude at times, kept laughter in the air.

The expressive and altruistic light in Louis will be missed by his children, Devin Smith and Jenna Smith; his siblings, Tom Smith, Lisa (Larry) Lookenhouse, Sandy (Mark) Cataldo, Julie Smith, and Bill Smith; many nieces and nephews; as well as his ex-wife with whom he remained a caring friend and excellent co-parent, Dawn Smith.

Besides his parents, Louis was preceded in death by his nephew, Cody Smith.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 4-7 pm on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, at Lind Funeral Home in Jamestown.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to plant a tree in honor of Louis or to make a memorial to the American Heart Association at heart.org/

To leave words of condolence, please visit lindfuneralhome.com.