James David Smith, Jr., age 58, of Lavonia, was called home on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 7:03 p.m. at Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center.

Born November 16, 1964, in Hart County, he was the son of the late James David "Snuffy" Smith, Sr. and Christine V. Smith. He graduated from Franklin County High school in 1982 and served in the US Army and the Army National Guard. He worked at Tenneco for thirty-four years and Nifco for two. He also served as security guard for UGA during football season for many years with his father. Mr. Smith was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church.

He is survived by his three daughters: Kristan Faith Evans, Kayla Smith Bennett (Colt), and Jessie D. Smith, all of Hartwell; five grandchildren: Madi Bennett, Alex Evans, Axel Evans, Logan Harris, and Aaralyn Harris, all of Hartwell; his sister: Brenda Smith Shorter and three nieces: Morgan Christine Shorter, Haleigh Brooke Shorter, and Addison Leigh Shorter, all four of Buford.

He was loved by all who knew him and when he loved you, he loved big. He cherished his family. He was known as "Smitty" by many of his co-workers and friends. He loved football and was so proud of wearing that "61" green and white jersey in high school. He loved the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Falcons, but was most passionate about his Georgia Bulldogs and sporting his red & black year-round.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 26, 2023 at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Hartwell with Rev. Charles Smith and Rev. Terry Meeks officiating. Burial will follow in Nancy Hart Memorial Park. The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Larry Brannen, Jeff Freeman, Blake Hunter, Danny Hunter, Britt Smith, and Jeff Stovall. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. At other hours the family will be at the home of his daughter Kayla Smith Bennett in Hartwell.

Strickland Funeral Home of Lavonia is in charge of the arrangements. On-line condolences can be sent to the family at stricklandfh.com.