J.C. Smith, Sr.

Obituary For J.C. Smith, Sr.

Mr. J. C. Smith, Sr.

There are some lives that simply cannot be measured by the number of years lived, but instead, will be reverenced by the love given, the hearts they’ve touched, the faith they shared, and the legacy they leave behind. Such was the life of J.C. Smith.

J.C. was born on November 11, 1945, in Pavo, Georgia, to the late Frank and Reatha Lee Smith. Born into a family of twelve children, he was surrounded by strength, love, and solid family values from the very beginning.

He was educated in the Brooks County School System, where he developed a love for track and basketball. As a young man, J.C. relocated to Miami, Florida, carrying with him dreams, determination, and a future yet to be written. Little did he know that he would meet and marry the love of his life, Yvonne. The woman who became his heart, best friend and life-long partner.

A Love That Spanned a Lifetime

Just three months after meeting, J.C. and Yvonne were united in marriage on May 1, 1966. What began as a beautiful love story grew into a partnership that would span more than 60 years—a lifetime of love, laughter, trials, memories, and unwavering commitment. Together, J.C. and Yvonne built a home filled with love and a family rooted in faith. A love that was more than just a marriage;it was a foundation, a promise and a journey walked hand in hand through the changing seasons of life.

His Greatest Blessing—His Family

Together, J.C. and Yvonne were blessed with two children, Jacquetta Smith-Huskey (Don) and Jonathan Smith (Glenda). J.C. took tremendous pride in his family and cherished every role he held—as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His family continued to grow, bringing him ninegrandchildren: Kevon, Jeremy, Jade, Jerome, Joby, Jonathan Jr., Donte’, Mone’t and Kayla; two great-grandchildren, Kodi and Adam; and three godchildren, Vonley, Voselyn, and J.C.

To his family and friends, he was affectionately known as Sonny, Jake, Unc, and Pop—names that represented the many relationships, memories, and special bonds he shared with those he loved.

He was a husband who adored his wife, a father who loved his children, a grandfather who cherished his grandchildren, and a great-grandfather who was blessed to see another generation of his family. His family was one of his greatest accomplishments and deepest sources of joy.

A Man of Faith

J.C. loved the Lord, and his faith was an important part of his life and legacy. For more than 62 years, he was a devoted member of Saint Matthews Free Will Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a Deacon and dedicated many years to singing in the church choir. His commitment to his church was not just a title or responsibility—it was a reflection of his love for God and his desire to serve others. Through his years of worship, service, and fellowship, J.C. became a beloved memberand respected leader of his church family.

Whether he was serving as a Deacon, lifting his voice in the choir, or simply being present among his church family, J.C. demonstrated a faith that remained a meaningful part of who he was. He loved the Lord, and his life was a testimony to that love.

A Man of Hard Work and Dedication

J.C. was a hardworking and dedicated man who built a career through years of commitment and perseverance. His work history included Peninsula Trucking Company, Studio of Lighting, and Wells Fargo. He later found his long-term professional home as a Stevedore at the Port of Miami, where he faithfully worked for 38 years.

The Legacy He Leaves Behind

J.C. is preceded in death by his parents and ten of his siblings, but leaves to cherish his precious memory: his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Yvonne Smith; his daughter, Jacquetta Smith-Huskey (Don); his son, Jonathan Smith (Glenda); his grandchildren, Kevon, Jeremy, Jade, Jerome, Joby, Jonathan Jr., Donte’, Mone’tand Kayla; his great-grandchildren, Kodi and Adam; his only surviving sister, Shirley Brinson (Johnnie); Sister-in-laws Mary Brooks, Vivian Bennett and Diane Smith, his best friend and brother-in-law, Nathanial Jones; his dear friends, Ozzie Williams (Chonita) and John Morrison (Laura); three godchildren, Vonley, Voselyn, and J.C., his beloved Saint Matthews Free Will Baptist Church family and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and loved ones.

J.C. will be remembered for his love of God, the beautiful life he built with Yvonne, his devotion to family, years of service to his church, and the countless memories he created with those closest to him.

Though his earthly journey has ended, his love, faith, and cherished memories will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life was a blessing, his love was everlasting, and his memory will be treasured forever.

Services were Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cemetery in Pavo, Georgia with Pastor Harris officiating. To access livestream of the service and share condolences with the family, we invite you to visit our website at stevensmcgheefuneralhome.com Stevens-McGhee Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

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