John E. Smith, Sr.

In loving memory of our beloved John E. Smith, Sr. who passed away four years ago today.

Elegy In Iron

There were so many things for him to do

To “set his house in order”, yet he chose

His workshop where conglomerate old and new

Were neighbors on the shelves, and always those

Placed nearest to his reach - the common things -

Screw-driver, hammer, pliers, saw-toothed wrench,

Assorted nails in jars; stark memory brings

The iron vise, tight-fastened to the bench,

Now idly wide as though it waits his hand’s

Firm touch to turn and turn to close the gap. . . .

My heart’s own vise begins to loose it’s bands,

Slowly my fingers open in my lap.

How can these small hard tools form such a span

That brings me heart and warmth that was the man?

Sadly missed by,

Wife Sandie,

Lori and Matt,

John Jr. and Family