The John R. Smith Scholarship was established by a Wayland Union Schools graduate to honor his family’s legacy and his life values. These values include the importance of being in Christian service, agriculture and education and are shared by his wife, Sally.
This legacy includes the Tanner and the Steeby families. From his mother’s side, the Tanner family goes back many decades in the Wayland area. Likewise, from his father’s side the Steeby family includes Maude and Rudy Steeby. Rudy was the former Wayland Union Schools Superintendent who began his teaching as an elementary teacher after moving to Leighton Township in 1924 and serving as superintendent for 36 years until his retirement in 1963. His lasting impact on the district is reflected in Steeby Elementary, named in his honor.
Likewise, agriculture has been a significant part of John R’s life growing up on the family farm in Leighton Township with his parents, Vivian and Russel Smith. This farm is still a viable part of the community. Christian service has directed the lives and families of both John R and Sally as well as their heritage.
Through this fund, their legacy continues to be carried forward, ensuring their influence remains a meaningful part of Wayland’s story for generations to come.