Devoted father, strong husband, lighthearted spirit
Josh was a man whose impact was felt in everyday moments. It was the way he showed up for his family as a devoted father and loving husband, or the way he brought humor and steadiness to those around him. Recognition was never his motivation; it was simply who he was.
As a father, Josh was always present, not just for big events but in the quiet, everyday moments that truly shape a child’s world. For his son, Jaxon, that presence meant everything. Anything they did together became Jaxon’s new favorite thing, whether it was trips to the lake, days at the splash park, or just playing and roughhousing at home. Josh created a sense of stability for Jaxon by dedicating his time and attention freely, making sure his son knew he was loved through the way he showed up for him every single day.
As a husband, Josh was a steady and devoted partner. Stormie, his wife, describes their marriage as one of true soulmates, built on love and trust. They were proud of the life they created, moving into a bigger home with land, something Josh had always wanted. He took pride in providing for his family, often telling Stormie, “I’ll build it for you, baby,” reflecting both his skill and his love for those around him.
Josh had a personality that naturally brought joy to everyone he interacted with. Known for his contagious sense of humor and constant “dad jokes,” he had a way of making people laugh and feel at ease. He had a knack for turning even simple moments into something memorable. Josh enjoyed practical jokes, sometimes repeating questions in different ways to see how long it would take someone to realize he was messing with them. He would even make up his own rap songs, keeping things lively and full of good energy. He was incredibly skilled and self-motivated, taking pride in his professional career where he worked his way up to running a crew that traveled for projects with Walmart. He took great pride in his work and in providing for his family.
As dependable and steady as Josh was for his family, he carried struggles that were not always visible to those around him. For years, he privately lived with substance use disorder, carrying more than most ever realized, all while continuing to show up for his family and other responsibilities. In the final month of his life, he made a serious effort to change his life, maintaining 28 days in recovery and working towards a better life for himself and his family. After those 28 days, he returned to use. His tolerance was no longer what it had been, and he used more than his body could handle. That moment cost him his life, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply and a future he had been actively working toward.
For those who loved him, Josh’s absence is felt every day, in the quiet moments, in the life he built with his wife, and in his son’s loss of a devoted father. The memories of joy and everyday moments now live in their hearts. Josh’s story challenges assumptions about substance use disorder. He was a devoted husband and father, bringing laughter and joy to all. His life is a reminder that people can struggle privately, and his family continues to share his story with hope for understanding, not judgment.
Josh’s wife, Stormie Smith, provided the information for this narrative.
August 1, 1989-November 28, 2025-Age 36
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Justin Teague
