Johnny W. “J.W.” Smith, born Johnny Wayne Rayburn, 54, of Vidor, died Thursday, December 24, 2009, at his residence. A native and lifelong resident of Beaumont, J.W. was born September 17, 1955, and worked as a school teacher at Austin Middle School.

His mother, Grace Rose Brown preceded him in death.

Survivors include his son, Chad Smith and his wife Ashley of Baytown; grandchildren, Luke Smith and Ashley Smith II; and sister, Cindy Hebert and her husband Mike of LaPorte.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin, Beaumont.

Memorial contributions may be made to Boys Haven, P.O. Box 5815, Beaumont, Texas 77726; or Girl’s Haven, 3380 Fannin, Beaumont, Texas 77701.