Orval Joseph “OJ” Smith, a master electrician and devoted family man who spent a lifetime building the industrial backbone of America, passed away at the age of 89 in Tampa, Florida. Born in December 10, 1936, near Montgomery, West Virginia, OJ was the son of Orval and Margaret Smith. His early life was defined by the grit of the Appalachian mountains, living in a mud-packed log cabin where his mother scrubbed the walls with lye soap and his father leveled the cookstove with rocks. From a young age, OJ learned the value of hard work, helping his parent’s clear timber by hand and working in his father’s sawmill by the time he was seven years old.
His professional journey was marked by a fascination with flight and technical precision that began when he watched bomber formations fly over his family farm during World War II. This passion led him to the U.S. Air Force in 1955, where he specialized in aircraft instrument repair and autopilots. His career later evolved to include working on Atlas missile systems at Cape Canaveral and managing critical infrastructure for the construction of Walt Disney World. As a licensed electrical contractor and superintendent for companies like Blount Inc. and Rust Engineering, OJ traveled to 17 different states, bringing massive industrial plants and power systems to life.
Despite a life spent on the road, OJ’s greatest priority was his family. He often noted that the constant moves required his family to become each other’s best friends, creating a bond that never wavered. After years of traveling, he and his wife Janet finally settled on Rebecca Lake in Fayetteville, Tennessee. Following Janet’s passing in 2018, OJ moved to South Tampa to live with his son Jeff.
OJ is survived by his sons, Rex Smith and Jeff (Dustie) Smith, and his siblings, Tom Smith, Kitty Hildreth, and Susie Creber. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Janet.
Throughout his 89 years, OJ maintained a lifelong passion for aviation, engineering, and the “crazy lives” of his sons. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity and resilience, having lived a full life characterized by the belief that while he built many things the public would never see, the family he built was what mattered most.
A graveside service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Higgins Cedar Hills Memorial Gardens, with Bro. Tommy Graham officiating. There will be no visitation prior to the graveside service.
At Higgins Funeral Home, it is our privilege to offer comfort, care, and support to the family of Orval Joseph “OJ” Smith.
4 Comments To "Orval Joseph “OJ” Smith"
#1 Comment By Brenda Ables On April 16, 2026 @ 6:17 am
I got to know Joe after he retired at Rebecca Lake. He was a kind and generous man. My friend Angie and I loved to visit Joe and hear him tell about the various work he had done in his lifetime. He was intelligent and talented in complicated engineering. He and Janet raised two exceptional sons. Jeff you did such a great job taking care of him. Sending you hugs.
#2 Comment By Larry Pitchford On April 16, 2026 @ 9:40 am
Sitting outside with him watching the planes fly in and out of Mcdill AFB and
The stories he told about every plane and its history. He was a true American hero
Gone but not forgotten .
#3 Comment By DC Miles On April 16, 2026 @ 6:24 pm
Joe was one of the closest friends my dad had in a life where friends were often transient. Dad always talked about how smart Joe was and how much he respected him.
As a kid, Mr. Joe’s dark hair and electric blue eyes left an impression on me. I thought he looked cool and unique, ha. And I knew that I was going to learn something interesting from him about how the world works or how things are made.
Our family is heartbroken over this loss. Very much my Mom and Dad. Joe and Janet were uniquely lifelong friends.
Sending love and prayers to the boys.
#4 Comment By Doug Miles On April 17, 2026 @ 7:15 am
Thanks Jeff, I passed on to family members also.
This brought back many memories from discussions I had with your dad. He was a great guy and great storyteller as he had many experiences to talk about. I am sure you will miss him but remember him always.
After talking with you yesterday and discussing the situation with Joyce last night we have decided not to make the trip for the graveside memorial. We will just remember he and your mom and the good times we had with them. You were blessed to have parents such as them. You and Rex were loved by both very much.
Let us know when you return to the area, maybe we can get together and talk about memories.
Doug