John E. "Slugger" Smith

Mr. John E. "Slugger" Smith, age 81, died from heart failure Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at his home in Bartow. Born February 26, 1927 in Oak, FL, Mr. Smith was a lifelong area resident. Mr. Smith worked for IMC for 43 years before retiring. He attended Bartow First Baptist Church and was a member of the American Legion Post #3 in Bartow as well as the Union Local #39 ICWU. Mr. Smith was also a U. S. Navy Veteran, serving in WWII. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Louise Duke Smith. Mr. Smith is survived by his wife Jenny F. Smith, four daughters; Susan DeNeve and husband Mike of Bartow, Lynda MacPherson and husband Doug of Wesley Chapel, Jenny Lynn Albritton of Fort Lauderdale, Teri Markley and husband Roy of Winter Haven, and a son Lex Thompson and wife Carol Ann of Tallahassee, FL. He also leaves behind nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Arrangements are being handled by Whidden-McLean Funeral Home 650 E. Main Street in Bartow where family will receive friends Wed. November 5th from 6 to 8 PM. Services for Mr. Smith will follow Thurs. November 6th at 10:00 AM at the funeral home chapel. Memorials may be made to: First Baptist Church of Bartow Youth Ministries, 410 East Church Street Bartow, FL 33830 or Good Shepherd Hospice 105 Arneson Ave. Auburndale, FL 33823