Capt. John L. Smith (Ret.)

Captain John L. Smith, (Ret.), passed away at Geisinger Hospital on May 3, 2026, with his family at his side. He was 95 years old.

John was born in Wilkes Barre Township on March 8, 1931. He attended Wilkes Barre Township and Wilkes Barre City schools. He served 3 years in the National Guard. He drove truck for a number of years. In 1960, he joined the Wilkes Barre City Police force. He served as a patrol officer, motorcycle officer, and was the city's first K-9 officer. He achieved the rank of Sergeant and retired in 1986 at the rank of Captain of Patrol. 

His favorite pastimes were fishing, and hunting with his sons and grandsons at the family cabin in Thornhurst.

John was married to the former Rosemary Williams for 76 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Bridget, and stepmother Millie; sister Dolores Cannon and brother in law Bernie Cannon; sister in law Joan Thomas; brother in law Dr. Robert Williams, and granddaughter Patricia Jones.

He is survived by his wife Rosemary; daughter Debra Jones (Robert); Sons John J. (Ellen), Robert (Karen), and Charles (Mary); 11 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Services will be held on Saturday May 9th at St. Ignatius Church, North Maple Ave. Kingston, PA. Visitation will start at 9am, with mass to follow at 10am. Arrangements provided by Jendrzejewski Funeral Home.