Johnny Smith

Johnny Smith died July 27, 2025, at North Okaloosa Hospital after an extended illness of pulmonary fibrosis. He was born January 5, 1946, in Naples, Italy to Horace Smith and Tina Messina Smith. Johnny graduated from Autauga County High School, Class of 1964.

Following graduation, he continued his studies at Lurleen B. Wallace Jr. College, Clark College and Okaloosa Walton Community College.  He also attended the Police Academy and FBI Negotiating School.

Johnny spent 25 years with his wife Helen Headley Smith enjoying traveling and gardening and just spending time together.

Johnny had a very busy adult life with many careers: Banker, Farmer, Business Owner, Okaloosa County Deputy Sheriff and Residential Contractor. Johnny was a loyal member and officer of the Fraternal Order of Police, Walton County Competency Board, Mossy Head Water Board, Mason, Scottish Rites and Shriner.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a grandson, Tyler Smith. Surviving in addition to his wife are his three sons, Bart Smith (Delisa) of Crestview, FL, Chad Smith of DeFuniak Springs, FL and Chad Pickens of Santa Rosa Beach, FL; grandchildren, Jeremy Smith of Dothan, AL, Presley Pickens of Fort Walton Beach, FL and Kade Pickens of DeFuniak Springs, FL.

The family will have a private service at a later date. Those who want to remember Johnny in a special way may make gifts in his memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38015 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, P O Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394.

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