Willie Edward Smith, Sr.

Willie Edward Smith, Sr. 1945-2017 Willie Edward Smith, Sr. was born in Molino, FL July 4, 1945. He went home to be with Jesus Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at the age of 71. He was known by a lot of his friends and fans as the Guitar Man, when he played in the band. He loved his Country and Gospel music. At the end of each show they would close with a gospel song. Willie retired from Smith Bakery. Willie was preceded in death by his parents, E.J. “Elluard” Smith and Lucia Margariet Smith; daughter, Tammy Lynn Smith; grandson, Daniel Smith; great-grandson, Curtis Smith, niece, Samantha Nowling, several aunts and uncles. He is survived by his loving wife, Betty “Kay” Smith; son, Willie Edward (Sandy) Smith, II; daughters, Sheila (Randy) Ballard and Christina (Chris) Cody; six grandsons, Christopher Phelps, Richard Ballard, Tyler (Kim) Smith, Devin Smith, Dalton Smith and Michael Cody; six granddaughters, Brittany Brown, Miranda (James) Benton, Skye Smith, Ashley and Kristian Ballard and Emily Cody; one great-grandson, Gabrielle Phelps with one great-grandson on the way, Jasper Wayne Benton; brothers, Melvin (Sharon) Smith, Charles Smith, Roger Smith and Paul Smith; sisters, Wanda (Robert) Cushing, Deborah (Cleve) Cushing, Hazel (Steve) Wilson and Leona (Don) Gafford; aunts, June Weaver and Mary Ann Patrick; uncle, Jimmy Denham, several nieces and nephews. Willie will be deeply missed by his wife and all of his family. He was a loving husband. The best thing that has ever happened to me. He loved all of his family. We were all very close and hope it will stay that way. That was his final wish. Pallbearers will be Christopher Phelps, Chris Cody, Michael Cody, Richard Ballard, Randy Ballard and Michael Smith. I want to give a special thanks to Brother Ken Johnson and his wife, Vickie for being here at our time of need. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to help with the funeral arrangements. Visitation will be Saturday, June 3, 2017 beginning at 10:00 a.m. with the funeral service to begin at 11:00 a.m. Brother Ken Johnson will be officiating. Interment will follow at Pugh’s Chapel, Molino, FL. FAITH CHAPEL FUNERAL HOME NORTH, 1000 Hwy 29S, Cantonment, FL is entrusted with the arrangements. You may express your condolences online at www.fcfhs.com

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Willie Edward Smith, Sr.

July 4, 1945 - May 30, 2017