Jackie Roy Smith was born on April 9, 1959, the fourth child to the late John and Mary Smith (Hayes). Jack passed away on September 11, 2026.

Jack grew up in Cincinnati’s West End and Bond Hill neighborhoods, attending Sands Elementary, Crest Hills Junior High, and Woodward High School. At Woodward, as a member of the class of 1977, he excelled both academically and athletically. He played on both the basketball and baseball teams. He shared his passion and skill in baseball with his father, who named him after two all-time greats, Jackie Robinson and Roy Campanella.

Jack earned his associate’s degree in computer science from Southern Ohio College, where he also played junior college basketball. Upon completion of his degree, Jack switched career direction and joined The Learning Center at North Norwood. Jack remained with this organization for 40 years, until retirement in 2024.

Jack was a favorite uncle, brother, and friend to many. Friends, neighbors, students, and staff members sought him out because he valued and uplifted them with his kindness, amazing sense of humor, and acceptance. Jack was especially fond of his neighbor, Ms. Margaret, whom he helped with her chores around the house.

On any given day, Jack could be found relaxing on his porch with his music and grill, cheering on the hometown Bengals.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, John and Mary Smith; his son Brandon Simms; his older brother Michael Smith; and sister Denice Bell.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his life partner, Vera Simms; his son, Victor Simms; his grandchildren, Janiiyah, Jaden, Victor Taylor, Zayden, Roman, and Kingston; sisters Teresa Smith, Cynthia Wilson (Larry); and little brother Warren Smith (Sandy); in-laws, Abdul Rahim (Natola), Pamela Simms, Rick Simms (Fay), Darlene Simms (Terry), and Shawn; many cousins, one in particular, Darcel Smith, instrumental in the Jack and Vera story; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other friends.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Mt. Healthy, 7272 Hamilton Avenue, Mt. Healthy (45231). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 11:00 am. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

He will be laid to rest at Spring Grove Cemetery, 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45232.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Smith family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Smith family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.