In January 2017, Rich Smith passed away with his family by his side. The following year was a transition for the entire company, as the third generation took on ownership of the company. Despite the tremendous loss, Richelle, Eric and Christopher were determined, along with the executive committee and employees, to keep Rich’s legacy alive, and to continue doing their best for customers.

As a result, providing better product continued to be a top priority for the company. In the late 2010s, S.J. Smith made use of the first zero loss tank made by Chart for ultra-high purity Oxygen, and the first “Hero” low loss system was installed for Argon filling of ORCAs.

The fleet expanded over the past decade with new trucks and trailers, including a larger Nitrogen trucks, a Nitrogen tube trailer, a Nitrogen ORCA micro-bulk truck, a second larger Oxygen ORCA truck and a full-size CO2 transport.

In 2021, the company expanded into dry ice production and dry ice blasting equipment, and a field service cryogenic program was implemented. In May 2021, S.J. Smith moved the Decatur branch to a new retail location and fill plant.

As of Nov. 1, 2025, the company’s 75^th anniversary, Richelle Smith-Brecht was the President and CEO, Christopher Smith was the incoming Director of Procurement, and Eric Smith was the Vice President of Operations. 

What started off as a small welding supply company in 1950, has become a dynamic, problem-solving organization that focuses on providing top-notch service to all our customers, large and small. S.J. Smith uses the latest technology, training and experience to serve customers with the best solutions, whether that is in engineered laser gas installations, mobile app cylinder tracking capabilities, micro-bulk technology, weld training specific to your needs or certified equipment repair and more.

Our philosophy is to treat our customers and vendors with professionalism, responsiveness, and honesty. Our goal is to add value to business partner organizations, with our commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and mutual satisfaction, prompt responses and sound problem-solving advice. We work and live by our values of honesty and integrity, safety and customer-driven excellence, and our mission is to make our customers successful by providing cutting-edge solutions and quality products.

Over the past 75 years, the company has spanned three generations of the Smith family, and a few generations of employee families as well. In 2025-2026, we celebrate our past, and look forward to a bright future. Follow us on social media and check for updates at sjsmith.com to learn more.