Brian Walton Smith, 82, of New Philadelphia died Thursday, September 23, 2021, while doing what he loved most, motorcycling in the Alps of Austria where he was involved in a fatal accident.
Born in Norfolk, Virginia on March 15, 1939, Brian was a son of the late Marvin and Grace Smith.
Brian resided in Norfolk …
Brian Walton Smith, 82, of New Philadelphia died Thursday, September 23, 2021, while doing what he loved most, motorcycling in the Alps of Austria where he was involved in a fatal accident.
Born in Norfolk, Virginia on March 15, 1939, Brian was a son of the late Marvin and Grace Smith.
Brian resided in Norfolk until the age of 21 when he met a young nurse, the former Judith Jordan, who was vacationing with friends. The couple married two months later and have shared the past 61 years of their life in one adventure or another always living life to its fullest.
Brian focused on work as a developer and built and owned nine low-income housing properties for the elderly throughout Ohio and West Virginia. Judy worked for many years as a nurse and in retirement, they traveled the world. As a couple, they loved going on cruises and traveling to parts unknown witnessing some of the amazing landscapes and architecture this world has to offer. Brian also enjoyed countless ski trips with the Pittsburgh Ski Club, kayaking trips to Norway, and numerous motorcycle trips throughout Europe, Australia, South Africa, Morocco, and South America as well as the United States.
Anytime one encountered Brian or received an email you were sure to have received his trademark “Hiya-Hiya” greeting. His love and generosity stretched far and wide with not only family but anyone in need. He was a skilled woodworker, who always found a way to get things accomplished even if he originally told you “It can’t be done.”
Brian’s energetic personality will be deeply missed by his wife, Judy, their children, Gregory (Julie Rheinscheld) Smith of Galion, Ohio, Jeffrey (Darlene) Smith of Stonecreek, and Susan (David) Lautenschleger of Strasburg; his beloved grandchildren, Tyler (Chelsee) Smith, Austin (Shelby) Smith, and Josie and Aleca Lautenschleger; a great-grandson, Colton Smith, and countless lifelong friends.
In addition to his parents, Brian was preceded in death by a brother, Conrad Smith.
In keeping with Brian’s wishes, there will be no public services. Instead, the family asks that those who wish to honor Brian, take an adventure, or perform the impossible to celebrate a life well lived. The Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia handled local arrangements.
hideThere will be no public services. Instead, the family asks that those who wish to honor Brian, take an adventure, or perform the impossible to celebrate a life well lived.
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Post an EventOn behalf of the Geib Family and Staff, we offer our most sincere sympathy for your loss. We are honored to have been called upon to serve your family.
I knew the Smith family when I was their morning paperboy. Brian and myself attended Granby High School and were members of the Virginia Army National Guard 111th. Field Artillery, we were close friends all our lives. I am very sad to hear of his passing and if I can help please let me know. God bless-Totus Tuus, Tommy
Sending deepest sympathy to Judy & family on the loss of Brian.
So sorry to hear about Brian's passing. He was an interesting man and a big part of my formative years growing up. I always enjoyed his perspective on things as it made you think through your position before you opened your mouth. I tried to learn that from him. I also appreciate how he and Judy were generous and kind to Debbie and I when we got married. Lastly, when I heard how he left this world, it brought a smile to my face knowing that he lived until the very end. I think that's how he would of liked it. My condolences.
I miss the wild man horribly already. We had adventures planned that may never get ridden now that he's gone. We are all a bit poorer from his passing.
Our condolences Jeff,Darlene and Susan. Brian was truly a trailblazer and we always enjoyed working with him and your family.
Judy, I am so very sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed working on cruises for you and him when I was still working at AAA. You are blessed with wonderful memories! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, Patti Brown
It was an honor to meet you Bryan. Ride high.
Susan, So sorry for the loss of your Dad.
So sorry for your loss. Brian was a wonderful spirit who blessed our lives with his presence. Dan often shared stories of his interactions with Brian over the years. I am happy he was able to depart us doing something he loved, and I am saddened by the hole he leaves in everyone's hearts by such an abrupt departure. Death is never easy for those left behind. Our thoughts are with his family. Dan & Kristi Atkins and family
There was only one Brian, and we are so happy he was our friend. He was such a pleasure to know and work with. We are so sad to hear of his passing. If there is anything that you need, that we can help you with, please call us. Galicks, Inc. Greg, Ed, Jake, Curt and Nancy
Geib Funeral Home & Crematory
On behalf of the Geib Family and Staff, we offer our most sincere sympathy for your loss. We are honored to have been called upon to serve your family.