John Smith (24 April 1936 – 23 May 2008) was an English football player and manager from West Hartlepool. As a forward and midfielder, he was noted for his effective passing and aerial ability. He played for Hartlepool United, Watford, Swindon Town, Brighton & Hove Albion, Notts County, Margate, and Ramsgate. He became player-manager of Ramsgate in 1971, and later managed Bath City, Swindon Town's youth squad, and Margate. After retiring from managing, he ran a tea room and worked as a taxi driver in Thanet. He died in Margate on 23 May 2008.