John Jay Smith

February 11, 1936 – January 27, 2026

John Jay Smith, age 89, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on February 11, 1936, John was the son of the late George and Gertrude Smith and the beloved brother of Larry and Carol.

John was a graduate of John Carroll University. In 1970, he and his cherished wife, Rosaleen, moved to Rochester, New York, where he began a long and successful career with Xerox. He remained with the company until his retirement in 2000, a milestone he looked forward to as it allowed him more time with the people he loved most.

Above all else, John was an exemplary family man. A devoted husband of 65 years, he always put his wife and family first, leading by example with unwavering love, patience, and integrity. He took great joy in time spent together, especially celebrating with his family and grandchildren—whether during visits to sporting events, frequent gatherings in Rochester or while traveling to many favorite vacation spots over the years. These moments of togetherness were among his greatest treasures.

John’s life was guided by strong values, quiet faith, and a steady presence that brought comfort to all who knew him. He was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his kindness, humility, and gentle sense of humor.

John is survived by his wife, Rosaleen; his children, Patrick (Debbie), Ted (Anne), Judy Winters (Roy), Matthew (Christine) and Kathryn Essig (Jack); 18 grandchildren

Patrick (Sophie) and Brent  (Beth)Smith; Olivia (Kevin) Sheehan, Mary Kathryn (Matt) Slodzinski, Maggie, Sarah, Jay and Caroline Smith; Grace, Jessica and Tommy Winters; Eleanor, Madeline amd Jacquelyn Smith; Kira, Lily,Sophie and Amelia Essig and 5 great-grandchildren. His legacy of love, faith, and devotion to family will live on through each of them.

Calling Hours: Sunday, February 1, 2:00–5:00 PM at Miller Funeral Home

Funeral Mass: Monday, February 2, at 1:00 PM at St. Louis Church

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to Shepherd Home – End of Life Care, Penfield, NY.