Jesse Leon Smith, age 81, of Strafford, Missouri, departed this life on July 8, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on April 14, 1940, in Montier, Missouri, the son of Jesse Lee and Alma (Hansford) Smith. He had two sisters, Wilma and Rozella.

Jesse received his education in the schools of Montier and Mountain View, MO. He proudly served our country in the US Army from 1957 to 1959. He was a millwright by trade and worked all over the United States and for a short term in Russia. He also worked as a real estate broker and served on several financial institution boards in his early career.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Rozella.

Survivors include Dixie Smotherman of the home; five daughters, Donna and husband, Kurt Armstrong, Rebecca Hankins and Bill Holmes, Tanya and husband, David Blankinship, Betty and husband, Steve Hockman, and Tammy and husband, Tom Hite; one sister, Wilma West; beloved sister-in-law, Donna Parmley; fifteen grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren.

Jesse was thankful for his children and grandchildren. He was a proud dad and grandpa and was proud of each child's successes. Especially if they had a "J-O-B"!

Jesse retired from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local #529. He was a lifetime member of American Legion Post 536, the VFW Post 3404, and the NRA. He was also a member of the Teamsters Union, AMVETS, USO, and a member of the Independence Masonic Lodge No. 76.

Jesse was a strong supporter of our right to vote and believed in "Making America Great Again"!

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements were made under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Mountain View. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com .