Jeffrey John Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully March 31, 2026, at the age of 78 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Born December 18, 1947, to John Edward Smith and Gloria Eliane Burnett, Jeff lived a life defined by quiet dedication, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family. A true “Utah Man,” he graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in Microbiology and discovered his calling in the laboratory—solving the mysteries of illness through careful analysis and thoughtful work.

Jeff built a meaningful career as a medical technologist, working at Holy Cross and LDS Hospitals before managing a laboratory in Washington. But his heart was always in the hands-on work he loved most. Returning to Utah, he and his wife Linda founded Southwood Laboratory, where for three decades he served physicians and patients with care, integrity, and expertise. He later continued his work at ARUP Laboratories, contributing to the understanding of chronic disease through blood analysis.

Jeff’s greatest accomplishment, however, was not found in the lab—but in his home.

He married his childhood sweetheart, Linda Denise Horrocks, on September 4, 1966, in the Salt Lake Temple. Their story began in a small town in Utah’s Uinta Basin, where their families were close and their lives intertwined from the very beginning. Their love story spanned 75 years of friendship and 60 years of marriage—a lifetime built on devotion, partnership, and love. They remained each other’s constant—true partners, creating a home filled with love, faith, and family.

Jeff was a devoted father who never missed a moment—whether it was a game, recital, or school parade. He loved backyard evenings, family camping trips, movie nights, and simple time together. And when he became a grandfather, his joy only grew. Known affectionately as “Bepaw,” he cherished each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing with them his warmth, humor, and steady presence.

A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jeff served faithfully and humbly. His favorite roles were as a Webelos Scout leader, and a primary teacher where he connected naturally with the scouts and children. He was a spiritual anchor to his family, always encouraging them to follow Christ and live with love and purpose.

Jeff also found joy in life’s simple pleasures—reading a good book, weekly visits to the library, and cheering on his beloved Utah Jazz and Running Utes, often with the radio tuned in for the play-by-play.

He is survived by his eternal companion, Linda; his children Michael (Kristy) and Jennifer (Todd); his grandchildren Andrew (Britney), Mary, Evelynn (Easton), Alex (London), Trevor, Becca, Katie, and Savannah; and his great-grandchildren Clara, Dallin, and Emma. He is also survived by his siblings Don (Sandy), Mark (Pauline), Steve (Kelly), Leslie (Greg), Cindy, and Eileen (Steve).

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Gloria, as well as his sister-in-law Olivia and brother-in-law Von.

Jeff’s life was one of steady love, quiet service, and enduring faith. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens, with a private family graveside service on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

Those wishing to share condolences or visit with the family are invited to attend a public viewing on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens.