Jerry Thomas Smith, aged 82, of Carrollton, Georgia, passed away on May 24, 2024, in his home surrounded by loved ones. He was born on August 29, 1941, in Bowdon, Georgia to his late parents, John Walter and Mary Jim Smith. He is one of 4 brothers including his identical twin, Gene Smith (Jane) and the late John Smith (Mozelle) and Eddie Smith (Carol).

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Kaylene Brock Smith, adoring children, Derek Smith (Jill) and Anissa Andrews (Lee), and loving grandchildren, Payton Snider (Joel), Bailey Bevil (Cody), Addison Lashley (Austin), Anna Reese (Zachary), Hunter Villa, and Mason Villa. Also survived by a loving brother-in-law, Jimmy Brock and sister-in-law, Diane Brackman. His life was a reflection of the values he held dear, living out the Gospel through acts of kindness, loving others, and his dedication to service.

He was a beacon of compassion, touching the lives of many with his kind heart and unwavering faith. He was the definition a great family man, leading by example in all things. Jerry's impact on his community was profound, as he dedicated his time to serving at Open Hands Ministry, the Carrollton Soup Kitchen, and was a member of the 32nd Degree Shriner, spreading love and kindness wherever he went.

Jerry's deep commitment to his faith was evident in his 40 year membership and devotion to Tabernacle Baptist Church, where he found solace and strength in fellowship and worship. He served as an assistant teacher in his Sunday School class. He also became a deacon at Prays Mill Baptist Church in 1973. He embodied what it truly means to live like Jesus and His light shone brightly through Jerry for others to see.

A proud alumnus of Bowdon High School, Jerry valued education and lifelong learning. Upon graduation in 1959, he attended Georgia Southwestern University in Americus, Georgia. Jerry later finished his education at West Georgia College in Carrollton, Georgia. He served in the United States Army for 3 years, demonstrating his commitment to serving his country. Following his military service, he entered the workforce at General Motors but spent most of his career at Lockheed Martin where he retired in 1998.

In his free time, Jerry enjoyed fishing, tending to his garden, spending time at the lake, and traveling the world with his beloved wife, Kaylene. He also found joy in watching college football, as well as Braves baseball. Jerry's favorite pastime, however, was simply sitting on the porch and fellowshipping with friends and family.

Jerry Thomas Smith's legacy of kindness, love, and selflessness will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and community, but his spirit will continue to shine brightly in their hearts. His goal in life was to wear out and not rust out. He certainly accomplished this!

A Celebration of Life for Jerry Smith will be held on Wednesday, May 29th, 2024, at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Carrollton, Georgia. The family will be receiving visitors from 11:00-1:00 with a service following immediately after in the sanctuary. Jerry and Kaylene's Sunday School class will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Flowers and plants are welcome. The family requests that those who would like to make a memorial contribution in Jerry's memory do so to Open Hands United Christian Ministry, 100 Bledsoe St. Carrollton, GA 30117.

Condolence messages can be sent to the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.