Brian Walton Smith

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.