John A. Smart
John A. Smart, of Billings, peacefully passed with grace into the arms of Jesus on October 27, 2020, with his loving wife Sheryl by his side. He was diagnosed with Sarcoma cancer in July 2020.
John was born in Billings, MT, on May 17, 1948, and was reared on the family ranch in Harlowton, Montana, until his family relocated to Shepherd, Montana. He graduated from Shepherd High School in 1966 where he formed lifelong friendships. He excelled in sports and socializing!
In 1969 he married Delet Snyder. To this union, he was blessed with two daughters and two sons, Jacqueline, Dana, Aron, and Craig.
John took pride in working for and eventually owning Billings Blueprint Company for over 40 years. He enjoyed interactions with his customers, who often became friends, and a daily visit from Dan Miller was always appreciated.
“Big John” was known for his big personality, opinions, hugs, and love of family and friends. John’s passion for football was evidenced when he became a coach, sponsor, and president of Little Guy Football. He eventually became a football coach with Skyview and Central High Schools. His Billings Blueprint Seahawks won two undefeated championships. He was also involved with volunteering for various sports roundtables, 4-H, and taught the value of character building through sports. He affected the lives of many youth athletes and taught them integrity through example.
Later in life, he was blessed to meet Sheryl, and they were married for over 20 years. They successfully united two separate families together as one. They spent many years raising their Angus cattle. In retirement, John raised a chicken “herd” and gained additional friendships while selling the best free-range eggs! John and Sheryl also enjoyed each other and welcomed all their grandchildren and grand pets while making family memories. Operating his trusty Kubota tractor was his favorite hobby.
He was welcomed to heaven by his parents Jack and Shirley Smart, infant daughter Dana, brother Steve, and many well-loved family members and friends.
Grieving his earthly departure are his wife Sheryl, children Jacqueline (Garett)Sorrells, Aron (Kelli)Smart, Craig (Amanda) Smart, two bonus sons, Joe (Sandra) Calame, and Chris (Melissa) Calame. His ten grandchildren include Paighton, Elijah, Bayleigh, Jeneva, Isabelle, Jocelyn, Saryn, Lexi, Amelia, and Finley. Along with the love and joy of having grandchildren, he gave them nicknames which they will cherish forever. In return, he was given the endearing nickname of Ponka by his first grandchild, Paighton.
Per his wishes and due to the current conditions, a private family service will be held. A celebration of his life will occur in May 2021 where all family and friends are welcome.
Any memorial donations can be made to Big Sky Senior Services, 935 Lake Elmo Drive, Suite B, Billings, MT 59105.
To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.cfgbillings.com
