Jason Smith, 60, passed away on October 15, 2021 after a 4 year battle with melanoma. He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Joyce Smith and is survived by his beloved wife Lisa, and children Avery and Tucker Smith; brothers Carson (Jane Branscombe), Craig (Cathy), Clay (Beth) of Lincoln. Nieces and nephews Betsy (Jarrett) Grindlay and Grace, Bob Branscombe, Bill Branscombe, Ben (Claire) Smith; Lauren Smith; Sarah, Emily and Katie Smith.
A native of Lincoln, Jason attended Sheridan, Irving and Southeast. Lifelong friendships were formed in the Stratford neighborhood where he developed a love of sports, playing games of football, baseball, and kick soccer in “the island”. Jason was a proud Knight and President of the LSE Class of 1979. At the University of Nebraska, Jason was an active member and officer of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Upon graduating with a business degree, Jason joined the family business, Speedway Motors.
Jason liked going fast. As the neighborhood wheelie king, his need for speed began with straight-line skateboarding and motocross racing in grade school. Fast times included downhill skiing with his buddies and brothers. On one of his last ski trips, Jason clocked a top speed of 69mph… he always said, “turns are over-rated”. For over 30 years, Jason led skiing, golfing, and Indy 500 trips with friends.
He was also genuinely devoted to motorsports. Jason, along with his brother Carson, owned an American Indycar Series (AIS) team. As a driver, Jason achieved podium finishes in Halifax and Monterey and the team won multiple races from 1986-92 including the 1989 National Championship with teammates Robby and Johnny Unser. In 1992 and 1994 Jason helped lead the Chevrolet sponsored race team that won and set records racing up Pikes Peak.
In 1998, Jason married Lisa Raymond and they had two beautiful children, Avery and Tucker. After meeting Lisa, he no longer raced, but turned his focus to raising his family, traveling as much as possible to show the world to his children. He rarely missed a school activity or event. His family was his proudest accomplishment.
Jason was a passionate leader and innovator in the after-market industry. For 40 years, he led the purchasing team at Speedway Motors, designing and procuring parts for millions of customers. Jason was devoted to the family business where he was a key member of the executive team. He was a Director of the Museum of American Speed.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, October 22nd at 1:00 pm at First Plymouth Church, 2000 D Street in Lincoln, with a reception to follow at the Museum of American Speed
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Museum of American Speed, P. O. Box 81906, Lincoln, NE 68501. A private interment will be held later.
Share a Memory or Condolence
I remember Jason when I taught at Sheridan in the early 70s. He was such a nice kid and friends with many of my students. I always wished he had been in my class. Taken far too soon, he lived in outstanding life. My sympathies to you all
– Karen Bush Hoiberg
The last time I saw Jason was at my brother’s (Tim Whitney) celebration of life in 2019 and prior to that in the 80’s. It was great to get to know Jason as an adult. We moved into the Stratford Ave neighbor hood when Tim as in 3rd grade so he grew up with Jason (and he also liked going fast). I have fond memories of going over to your house on Stratford and playing ‘horse’ at your basketball area. Let’s just image both Jason and Tim skiing in heaven…going fast! I am so sorry for you loss – Jason was such a kind person.
– Julie Whitney Fullmer
Dearest condolences and prayers to the entire Smith family. Jason was always so kind and sweet to my family. Dad and I had a blast going to a Husker game and tailgating at halftime with Jason and Craig. Too many memories to count. Lisa and family, May your faith give you comfort and strength in the days to come.
– Eric and Amy (Woodward) Tharp Family
Condolences to the family for your loss. I remember the times we would talk at the Lewis Family Reunions. Jason was always kind and fun-loving. He will be missed.
– Jason F Axtell
I just wanted to say how sorry I am to hear of Jason’s passing. I too was a Stratford Ave. kid with 4 boys in the family. I truly feel your loss. May you carry Jason’s life legacy onward and upward.
– Craig Roper
I only have great memories of the times I spent with Jason. I loved him a lot and we often shared some truths. One of his unique assets was that he was “really fast” at everything he did. I used to tell him it wasn’t fair because he didn’t “look fast” so he could fool people.
– Wade at JAZ
Lisa, Praying you and your children find peace and comfort in your memories until you see Jason again. I am so very sorry for your loss.
– Dee (McCall) Novacek
Great Tribute to a special man who had a life filled with special moments and great people. The time with us was cut way to short, but this unknowing plan we all live, has called for him to be with others who need him too.
Rest now Jason, because “Once a Knight Always a Knight, and Once a Night is Never Enough.” I can see that great smile right now.
Prayers to all the family and friends.
– Rick Clarence
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