Jess Smith, Jr.

Mr. Jess Willard Smith, Jr., 74, passed away Sunday April 2, 2023. He was born August 2, 1948, in Wise Virginia to the late Jess Willard Smith, Sr. and Neta Robinson Smith. Jess proudly served his Country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War with first battalion of the 327th of the 101st Airborne as well as the 82nd Airborne. He was a lover of history, discussing politics, cooking, and baking. Above all other things Jess was a lover and follower of Jesus Christ and dearly loved and cared for his family. In addition to his parents Jess was preceded in death by his first wife Shannon Smith. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Smith, a son Jeremy Smith ( Jessica), five grandchildren; Elijah Smith, Aiden Smith, Bentley Smith, Jayla Brown, and Arielle Brown-Smith, one brother; Eddie Smith (Linda), and a sister Jackie Presley (Ronnie). A funeral Service will be conducted 6:00PM Thursday April 6, 2023 at Hayworth-Miller Rural Hall Chapel with Rev. Eric Bradshaw officiating. The family will be receiving friends following the service at the funeral home. A private family inurnment will be conducted at a later date.