Joshua W. G. Smith Sr.
RICHFORD: Joshua W. G. Smith Sr., age 39, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, due to a motor vehicle accident in Jay, Vermont.
He was born in Burlington on December 14, 1983, the son of Maurice “Butch” and Emmymay (Dudley) Smith.
Josh, known as “Bug” as a child, grew up in Richford and continued to live in his hometown for the rest of his life. He attended Richford Jr.-Sr. High School until the 10th grade. He then joined the railroad as a laborer and cooked at Enosburg House of Pizza until the birth of his first son. He took on the role as a loving father full-time. Twelve years later he was blessed with another son and he continued to raise his sons with the love in his heart.
Josh wore a very tough and gruff exterior, however on the inside, he was a very caring and loving soul. He loved to make people laugh and was an extraordinary storyteller. He loved his parents dearly and always went out of his way to support them. In childhood, he enjoyed pranking his older brothers and he loved them so much. He loved being an Uncle and would listen to Marilyn Manson with Johanna, always calling her his sidekick. Josh was family oriented, loyal, and creative.
He was a natural born artist. During early adulthood, he brought his artwork alive by getting his art tattooed across his body. He was passionate about music. In his teens, Josh created his own band and they played together on the second floor of his parents’ home. His creativity filled the kitchen and he revealed it by creating dishes for his family to try even if the dish was too spicy. Josh cherished his time outside where he would spend hours tinkering on his four-wheelers. Josh had a vast amount of energy and he could hold an audience with his words whenever he was in the room.
We hope Josh knew how much his family was proud of him and how much he was loved. Josh will truly be missed by his community, friends, and family. We will hold and cherish all the wonderful memories we created together. May you be at peace. We love you Josh!
Josh is survived by his two sons, Joshua Smith Jr., and Daryl Smith of Richford and their mother Danielle Gingras; his parents, Butch and Emmy Smith of Richford; brothers, Lynwood Sherrer, and Russell Smith; nieces, Johanna Johnson-Sherrer, and Kiara Smith; nephew, Logan Smith; and very special friend, Duffy St. Armour.
He was predeceased by his grandparents, Dutch and Betty Dudley, Maurice and Ida Bedard; and aunt, Angel Dudley.
A funeral service will be held privately at the convenience of Josh’s family.
Condolences, photos, and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com
