Ernest L.

Smith, Sr.

Ernest Lamar Smith Sr. was born on October 30, 1939 in Grady County, Georgia to the late Alfred and Lillie Mae Smith.

Ernest passed away on October 24, 2023 at the age of 83.

He leaves behind a large family including sister Juanita McDonald (and late husband Jack) of Georgetown, son Tony Lamar Smith (Marie) of Macon, daughter Lisa Marie McGee (Neil) of Cordele, son Kevin Lamar Smith of Thomasville, and son Ernest Lamar Smith Jr (Kaynneka) of Valdosta.  He was preceded in death by sister Alpha Mae Smith and husband Clarence, as well as his son Ernest Jeffrey Smith and grandson Jeffrey Lamar Smith.

He also leaves behind many grandchildren and great grandchildren including Joni Smith, Justin Smith, Eli Tawzer, Tyrel Tawzer, Georgia, Aubrey, Liliana, Ernest "Trip" Smith, Kayland Smith, and great grandchildren Peyton Westphall.

Although he had many direct relatives, he also had hundreds of good people whom he considered family.  His extended family included many whom he called brother, sister, cousin, sons, daughters, nieces and nephews.  He truly cherished the time he spent with them and loved every member of his immediate and extended family.

As a child he grew up at a time when hard work was a daily part of life even for the youngest children.  This work ethic was something that he carried through his entire life.  At 17 years of age after graduating from Albany High in 1956 he joined the Navy.  After his time in the Navy he worked in the insurance business for more than 60 years and felt it was his calling to help individuals in anyway he could.  Along the way he had many side businesses including a survey stake business and lawn business to name a few.  He was a DIYer and never met a problem he wouldn't tackle head on.  Ernest was an avid hunter, fisherman, and loved reading books and considered himself a lifelong learner.

Ernest lived life on his terms.  He was a huge history buff and if you had a chance to spend time with him you may even have been surprised to learn how much history he lived through. He always worked to do the very best he could and knew that although imperfect, he tried hard to do right by people.  He was always ready to lend a helping hand and enjoyed making others laugh.  He worked hard, cared deeply, loved deeply, and cherished the memories he made with family and friends.  He had a hope that his God will one day make manifest.  He knew this life was not all there was. Although his earthly course has finished we can hold to the hope that we will get a chance in the near future to spend time with Ernest again. He will forever be a beloved father, brother, father-in-law, grandpa, and friend.  Ernest will be missed but not forgotten.  His legacy lives on and the hope to see him again is real. Rev 21:3-4; Acts 24:15

There will be a short memorial for Ernest on Saturday, November 4 at 1:30pm at Whiddon Shiver funeral home in Thomasville, Ga off of Highway 84. We are also asking anyone displaying cold or flu like symptoms please do not attend in person.

Masks are not required but there will likely be elderly and infirm folks in attendance; therefore please use discretion and good judgement in deciding this for you and your families. If you are unable to make it It is completely understandable.  We know life gets busy and we all have a lot going on. However if you are able to attend we would love to see you.