Mr. Joseph Smith

Joseph "Daddy Joe" Smith, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, transitioned peacefully surrounded by his loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and culinary excellence. Born and raised in Cooksville, Maryland, to the late George and Isabelle Smith, Daddy Joe received his education in Howard County at the Cooksville School. After his schooling, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy, where he experienced the world aboard the USS Incredible 249. Daddy Joe built a fruitful career with the State of Maryland, where he worked diligently for many years until his well-deserved retirement. He was married to the late Bertha Marie Smith, and together they were blessed with four daughters: Bertha, Juanita, Trichita, and Jolene. Daddy Joe’s nurturing spirit extended beyond his immediate family, as he lovingly raised his great-granddaughter Brittany and his three nephews, Winfield, James, and Butch, as his own. A true sportsman at heart, Daddy Joe found joy in fishing and hunting, often sharing his catches with family and friends. He was an expert chef, renowned for his signature roast beef, seafood casserole, and coconut custard pie. His culinary skills were celebrated through J&B Catering, a business he formed with his daughter Bertha, which became highly sought after by many prominent families. He cherished his time spent with Paul and Ada Parker and his nephew Frank, who visited him almost daily. Monthly dates with his daughters at “Dutch’s Daughters” were a treasured tradition, where he would often exclaim, “It doesn’t get any better than this.” Joseph also enjoyed going to the casino and playing cards with Frank and the rest of the team. Daddy Joe is survived by his daughters; grandchildren Lawrence Jr., Toshka, Meena, JJ, and Jenna; five great-grandchildren Ricardo, Allena, Jalen, Jasmine & Jax; three great-great-grandchildren; his sister Sarah; brother-in-law Paul; sister-in-law Ada; and a host of other nieces and nephews. As we say goodbye to Daddy Joe, we find solace in knowing his spirit lives on in the embrace of our Heavenly Father. His life, brimming with love and kindness, now rests in eternal peace. As we cherish his memory, let us draw strength from the hope of reuniting in God's eternal embrace.

Mr. Joseph Smith

September 20, 1925 - June 23, 2024