John Jordan Smith, 82, of Atlantic Beach, NC, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026.

He was born on June 24, 1943, in Tarboro, NC, to late Julian Craft Smith Sr. and Virginia Todd Smith. Raised in Bethel, NC, John earned the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of 13. A gifted athlete, he received a full basketball scholarship to N.C. State University. After completing one year at State, he chose to serve his country in the US Air Force. Following an honorable discharge, he returned to complete his degree at ECU where he was a member of Kappa Alpha.

John's keen business mind led to a successful career in mortgage banking. Over the years, he held several leadership positions with banks and savings and loans, rising to the level of Executive Vice President.

He will be remembered for his love of entertaining family and friends, cooking memorable meals on the grill and in the kitchen, boating, and beach music. He was a passionate ECU fan and served as past President of the Wake County Pirate Club.

John is survived by his wife, Gwen; his son, Carter (Sarah) of Winston-Salem; his grandchildren, Rhodes, Hayes, and James Kenyon; his step-children, Kim Ferrell Roberts of Chapel Hill and Richard Ferrell (Kathleen) of Jacksonville; his step-grandchildren, Kaitlin Ferrell Collins (James), Kathryn Ferrell South (Jonathan), Ricky Ferrell (Sarah), Allie Roberts and Emily Roberts; four step-great grandchildren: his sister, Mary Todd "Toddy" Warren of Greenville; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jordan Smith, and his brothers, William Smith Sr. and Julian Smith Jr.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in John's name may be made to the ECU Pirate Club. 

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.