J. L. "Joe" Smith

Funeral Service for J.L. "Joe" Smith, 62, of Vian, Oklahoma, will be at 10:00 AM on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at Stokes-Smith Ceremonial Grounds in Vian, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at Redbird Smith Cemetery in Vian, Oklahoma under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

He was born on August 12, 1962 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma to Nancy Jane (Webber) Smith and Junior Stoke Smith and passed away on April 12, 2025 in Vian, Oklahoma. Joe lived a life dedicated to his family and community. He was a proud graduate of the Cherokee Language Master Apprentice Program, where he honed his skills as a verbal and written Communication Specialist in Translation for the Cherokee Nation Language Department. His work not only showcased his talent and dedication but also contributed significantly to the preservation and promotion of the Cherokee language. Joe was a proud member of the Keetoowah Nighthawk Society.

Survivors are two daughters, Dayshia Smith and Jaron Tsosie of Tahlequah, OK and Lacey Billy and Matthew of Tahlequah, OK; two sons, Lyndon Smith of Tahlequah, OK and Kyle Smith of Vian, OK; seven grandchildren, Stokely Smith, Jonah Billy, Karsyn Smith, Journey Billy, Lyndly Smith, Brody Smith and Indy Smith; six sisters, Vickey Smith of Vian, OK, Sandra Lewis and John of Tulsa, OK, Diana Cox of Vian, OK, Lisa Smith of Purcell, OK and Sherry Smith of Vian, OK; one brother, Richard Smith of Vian, OK; and numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Stephanie Smith.

Active Pallbearers will be Koda Noisey, Uriah Grass, Brandon Bush, Stryker Fields, Jon Ollie, Gary Brooks and Winterhawk Grimmett.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Mitch Holcomb, Larry Webber, Leroy Webber, Sonny Smith and Walter Webber.

Viewing will be 3 - 8 PM Wednesday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, OK where the family will greet 6 - 8 PM.