Gordon Jay Smith

Gordon Jay Smith passed away in Ogden, Utah on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from heart failure.

Gordon was born on September 16,1952 in Santa Maria, California. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne; his sister, Tammy Nyland (Jim); his three brothers, Lane (Laurie), Todd (Shara), and Randy; and his close cousin, Dave Johansen (Patti). He was the proud uncle of 3 nieces and 10 nephews and 15 great-nieces and 9 great-nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Shirley Evans Smith.

Gordon had a long and successful career as a mechanic. He received an Associate’s degree in Auto Mechanics from Weber State College in 1973. He enjoyed all aspects of working on cars, trucks, and motorcycles and especially loved using his skills to help friends and family with their automotive repair needs.

Gordon grew up in Washington Terrace. He married his high school sweetheart, Susan Jane Thornton, in April of 1973. They divorced after 26 years of marriage. He later met and married Jeanne Ellen Godsoe. They moved to Massachusetts where they participated in Community Theatre. Gordon spent many enjoyable hours building sets and running sound for multiple productions.

Gordon enjoyed gardening and camping, but his greatest pleasure in life was flat-track motorcycle racing and motocross. He spent many hours at the Ogden Cycle Association racetrack, organizing races and racing his own motorcycles, where he earned the nickname of “Crash Gordon.” He also enjoyed traveling around the country to other races, including the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with friends.

Gordon had many beloved pets throughout his life. His chihuahuas, Brady, McKauley, and Manzana, were his favorite topic of conversation. After moving back to Ogden in 2021, he enjoyed taking care of his furry friends, Harley and Fenn, whenever he had the opportunity.

Gordon was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enthusiastically participated in Scouting and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He taught Sunday School to the youth and in the last few years was a wonderful support to his ward Elders Quorum President as a ministering brother, always willing to help the members with any need.

We would like to express gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Ogden Regional Hospital for their kind care in the last weeks of Gordon’s life.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Washington Terrace 5th Ward, 350 W. 5100 S., Ogden, Utah. There will be a short program for family and friends at 6 pm followed by light refreshments and visiting.

In lieu of flowers, please perform a random act of kindness in Gordon’s memory.