Roger J Smith

Roger J. Smith, 78, of Zanesville, passed away at 1:53 Am January 31, 2026, surrounded by his family while under the care of Genesis Hospice.

He was born on March 20, 1947, to John William Smith and June Louise (Payton) Smith of Cannelville. Roger graduated from Philo High School in 1966 and proudly served with the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles Division of the U.S. Army. He worked at Ohio Ferro Alloy, in Philo, until it shut down and he later worked at Longaberger Co., where he retired after 25 years.

Roger is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Rebecca (Darner) Smith, whom he married February 14, 1970; daughter, Melissa Payne; son, Matthew (Claudia) Smith; granddaughter, Megan (Alex) Castoe; grandson, Ryan (Hope) Smith and Scott (Allyson) Smith; great grandchildren, Broderick, Lance, Athena, and Donald Castoe; brother, Rick Smith; sister-in-law, Randalynn Toalepai; brother-in-law, Floyd (Judy) Darner, Bruce Darner, Ralph Darner, Rodney (Teresa) Darner, Robert (Stephanie) Darner, Ronald (Theresa) Darner, and Michael Rush; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Roger was preceded in death by his parent-in-law, Junior and Norma Darner; sister-in-law, Ramona Rush and brother-in-law, Lou Toalepai.

Private family services will be held, and a caring cremation will take place.

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