Larry Joe Smith

A celebration of life service for the extraordinary, Honorable Larry Joe Smith, 77, of Claremore, OK, was held Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Chapel in Sperry, OK.

Larry, known to family and friends as “Joe” or “L.J., was born April 7, 1948, in Tulsa, OK, to Raymond Faunzo Smith and Laura Louise (Rice) Smith. He left this world on June 26, 2025, in Inola, OK.

He was raised in Turley and graduated from Tulsa’s McClain High School in 1966. Joe served honorably in the U.S. Air Force along with his three brothers Kenny, Louis and Roy. Joe graduated from the University of Tulsa with a Bachelor of Science in English Literature as well as earning his Juris Doctorate in Law from TU. Joe led a life marked by community service. He was a strict practitioner of the law as an attorney, an Assistant District Attorney (ADA), and as an Oklahoma District Judge. He was active in the CASA mission to advocate for children in his community. His passion and commitment to his profession and public service was unquestioned, making him a trusted advisor and mentor for those who sought guidance. Joe had a profound ability to inspire others and was well known for his quick wit, sparkling blue eyes and wry smile. Joe remained active during his 16 years of retirement on his farm in Tiawah. He enjoyed fly fishing and an occasional trip to the casino. He savored quiet time while mowing and riding his tractor. Joe’s retirement was enhanced by his relationship with his wife Gena. Joe and Gena shared life and travel to some of their favorite places including the mountains of Colorado. Joe would often relax on his porch, with his wife at his side, enjoying the view of the hills and watching the neighborhood cows. Joe was a beloved husband, father and stepfather, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and community leader. Though Joe is no longer with us in person, his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace, dear Joe. You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Joe’s family is grateful to Luminos Hospice and the Inola Health Care Center nurses and staff who supported Joe in his final days. Also, thanks to the Tiawah volunteer firefighters who aided whenever they were needed.

His legacy is carried forward by his wife, Gena Gillis; daughter, Laura Weddle; grandchildren, Alyssa Brooks, Amelia Turowski and Christian Turowski; sisters, Patricia Casey and Linda Schafer; brothers, Roy Smith and Brad Smith; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; stepdaughters, Bonnie Gillis and Sarah Turowski; and many other relatives and close friends who will forever cherish the memories of his warmth and love.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louise and Faunzo Smith; and brothers, Kenneth Smith and Louis Smith.

Arrangements and services were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, Sperry.

Online condolences to the family can be made at johnsonsperry.com.