John Smith: A Lifetime of Service and Dedication

By Alex Robles

In the heart of Marlow, Oklahoma, nestled within the sweeping landscapes of the plains, lies the JST Ranch, home to John Smith. A loyal customer of Great Plains Duncan for many years, John's story is a testament to the deep-rooted belief in the importance of being a "servant."

As the sun paints the Oklahoma horizon in warm hues, John Smith's connection to the land and his community is palpable. At JST Ranch, he's not just a tractor owner; he's a steward of the earth, a guardian of traditions, and a dedicated servant to all he encounters.

John's connection with Great Plains is more than a business relationship; it's a partnership built on shared values. With Great Plains proudly embracing the motto, "The brand that serves," John's life embodies this principle. It's evident in every role he's undertaken, from being an undersheriff in Stephens County, to serving as a captain at the Oklahoma Beverage Commission and a police officer in Moore, Oklahoma. John's commitment to public service is a legacy passed down through generations.

His father's military background instilled in him a sense of duty and honor, values that continue to guide his life. In the quiet hours of dawn, as he tends to his ranch and operates his fleet of Kubota equipment, John's actions reflect the essence of service. He sees himself as a servant not just to his community but to the customers who rely on his custom hay baling operation.

"Rooted in Agriculture and Family"

John's love for agriculture was cultivated at a young age. Growing up in West Texas, he witnessed firsthand how agriculture was an integral part of the "way of life." This early exposure fostered a deep appreciation for the land, its rhythms, and the people who depended on it.

The memories of his childhood in West Texas, where he saw his family tirelessly working the farm, remain etched in his heart. Those days spent in the fields, under the vast Texan sky, were formative. They taught him the values of hard work, dedication, and the profound connection between man and nature. But John's story extends far beyond the fields of his ranch. He's also a devoted family man with two loving daughters and multiple grandchildren. His unwavering commitment to family values is the driving force behind his actions. John constantly seeks ways to spend quality time with his loved ones.

One of these cherished family traditions is partnering with his grandchildren in showing calves. It's a meaningful bonding experience that transcends generations and nurtures a deep connection to both the land and the animals that inhabit it. John's passion for agriculture is interwoven with the joy of sharing it with his family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

"The Synergy of Service and Community"

John Smith's journey, one that weaves together service, agriculture, and family, beautifully mirrors the ethos of Great Plains. The synergy between him and the dealership is evident in their shared belief in the power of being a "servant."

As John continues to operate his SVL Track Loader, RTV side by side utility vehicle, tractor, baler, and disc mower, he not only tends to his land, but also nurtures the relationships he's built with his customers. His commitment to service is a source of inspiration, a reminder that true success is not measured by one's possessions but by the positive impact one leaves on the lives of others.

Moreover, John's servant attitude extends beyond the boundaries of his ranch. He built a shop building on his property, a space that serves as a community hub for various events, including family dinner nights for the Marlow football team during the football season. This gesture exemplifies his dedication to his community and his belief in the power of bringing people together.

In celebrating John Smith, the owner of JST Ranch, Great Plains Duncan honors not just a loyal customer but a living embodiment of their mission. His story is a testament to the enduring connection between people, the land, and the belief that being a "servant" is the highest calling. In these vast plains, where the past and present converge, John Smith's legacy shines as brightly as the Oklahoma sun, a beacon of service, agriculture, and family values.

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*Award based on 2021 Progressive Farmer Reader Insights Tractor Study. **Subject to availability. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2023. $0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of new Kubota BX23S equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. Customer instant rebate of $1,500 with promotional rate financing or $1,800 with cash or standard rate financing. Some exceptions apply. Customer instant rebates include Orange Plus Attachment Instant