John Smith

Your MAB is sad to pass along word that former WOOD Radio (Grand Rapids) news anchor/reporter John Christopher "Smitty" Smith passed away May 11 at age 64, just three days before his 65th birthday.

Smith started his broadcasting career while a student at Michigan State University at WILS-AM (Lansing).  After graduation, he moved to Cadillac to work for WEVZ and WATT as the New Director. That gave him a chance to become close to his Cadillac cousins. A few years later he moved to Big Rapids, as the morning show jock, and then the News Director for WBRN. He became very fond of Big Rapids and Ferris State University, making it his own with many friends and activities. Smith's deep voice caught the ear of the WOOD Radio Program Director as he drove through Big Rapids, bringing John to Grand Rapids to work mornings for WCUZ, then moving to WOOD News Radio.

He was recognized by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters with several awards while at WOOD. John diligently worked early on snowy days to manage the GRAIL network of area school closings for ten or so years. His last move was to Ferris to work in Advancement and Marketing as a News Services and Communication Specialist for almost ten years.

Smitty was well known as the voice of Ferris State Football on the radio in the late 1980's to early 2000's, where his vibrant personality and deep knowledge of the game brought excitement to every broadcast. He also lent his voice to Ferris State hockey games and served as an announcer at basketball and baseball games. On occasion, he would step in as an announcer for the West Michigan Whitecaps and the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Smith was a member of the Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame Committee. Additionally, he filled in as a public address announcer and covered FSU Athletics and Bulldog student-athletes thru his work in the University News Services department.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Hadley Smith, and their sons, Nathan and Izaak.  Services were held at the St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Grand Rapids this past Thursday (5/22).