Joseph A. Smith was born in Passaic, New Jersey on August 30, 1897. He received a Grammar School education at St. Bridget's Parochial School in Jersey City, New Jersey. Trooper Smith worked as a clerk until he enlisted in the United States Army in December 1916. A veteran of World War I, he was discharged in June 1923. He resided in Trenton, New Jersey.

Trooper First Class Smith enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on September 1, 1925 as a member of the 11 State Police Class and was assigned to “Headquarters Troop” at the Point Pleasant Substation. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty and faithful and energetic devotion to the high principles of the New Jersey State Police.

The death of Trooper First Class Smith was a result of an accident that occurred in the line of duty.

On August 4, 1927, while on motorcycle patrol in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Trooper Smith was struck by a truck, crushing his chest. He was taken to Point Pleasant Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Trooper First Class Smith served 3 years and 11 months with the New Jersey State Police. He was 31 years old.