John Smith was educated at Robert Gordon's College in Aberdeen, where he chaired a 'playground parliament' rather than play sport. Before entering politics Smith was manager of the Aberdeen branch of the Dunfermline Building Society.[1] As a councillor he fought to save the listed 1842 New Market in Aberdeen, designed by Archibald Simpson.[1]
From 1987 to 2000 he was a delegate to the parliamentary assembly of the Council of Europe.[1]
He retired from the House of Lords on 30 April 2018.[3]
He was a life-long fan of Aberdeen FC, having attended his first match aged 4 on his father's shoulders. In 1980 he spoke at a testimonial for Joe Harper, Aberdeen FC's forward.[1]
Kirkhill died on 21 March 2023, at the age of 92.[4][5] He was survived by Lady Kirkhill (Frances Reid) and a step-daughter.[1]