Edward "Eddie" Smith

Ward Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory

Viewed: 2008

Posted by: Ward Wilson
[email protected]
3347924194
Date: Jul 13 2024 9:10 AM

Edward “Eddie” Smith, the man who lived with the spirit of a rock ’n’ roll king and the heart of a saint, has left the building. Born on a sunny day in Andalusia, Alabama, on June 26, 1957, Edward danced his way through life until July 9, 2024, when he took his final bow in Dothan, Alabama.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 P.M. Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Ward Wilson Funeral Home with burial to follow at Taylor Assembly of God Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Edward, known for his infectious laugh and Elvis Presley hip-shakes, was the kind of guy who never met a stranger or a fishing spot he didn’t like. He was the life of the party, whether that party was at a family gathering or just a Tuesday. As the oldest brother, he was the unofficial family caretaker, a role he played with the dedication of a headliner at a Vegas show.

He was preceded in death by a band of angels including his grandparents, TB and Lena Mae Rodgers; his parents, Darlene Dean, Dale Robert Dean, and Franklin Smith; his uncles, Gene Rodgers, Earl Rodgers, Tim Rodgers, Ferrell Rodgers, and Jimmy Rodgers, and his uncle, Foy Smith; his aunts, Margaret Hitner and Swancey- Anne Bowers; his sisters, Virginia Smith and Deborah Murphy; his brother, Jerry Smith; his cousin Theresa Clay; his niece, Tony Winkler, and his nephew, Shawn Smith.

He is survived by his aunt, Patricia Sessions; cousin, Wanda and her husband; his uncles, Gerald Smith, and Norvel Smith; his brothers, Norman Smith, Darren Rose, and David Lee Smith; his sisters, Redonna Johnson, Jannas Winkler and her husband Joe; his sister/niece, Heather Whril and husband Joshua, and Amber Smith; his two great nephews, Dae’Shaun and DaMarion Whril; his great nephew, Chaise Smith; his great-nieces, Michaela Smith, Liddy Wingate, Cheyenne Wingate, and Emma Wingate; his son, Little Jerry Smith; and stepsons, Little Edward Smith and Michael Smith. He is also survived by a whole host of other loving friends and family members.

Edward was a man who could turn any moment into a memory and any room into a stage. His love for fishing was only matched by his love for a cold drink and the tunes of The King. At 67, he proved that age is just a number, and you’re only as old as you feel – and Edward felt like a kid with a new pair of blue suede shoes.

Describing Edward as loving and gentle is like saying Elvis had a decent hip swivel – it’s an understatement. He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back. His presence was a comfort, his laughter a melody, and his generosity a testament to the kind of man he was. He wore his heart on his sleeve, always ready to extend a helping hand or offer a comforting word. His love for his family was as vast as the ocean, and he was a pillar of strength and support for those he held dear. His absence will be deeply felt, and the memories of his laughter and love will be treasured forever.

Edward’s life can best be described by the words loving and gentle. He approached the world with an open heart, and in doing so, he left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him. His kindness was a beacon of light, guiding others through their darkest moments and reminding them of the goodness in humanity.

As we bid farewell to Edward Earl Smith, we reflect on a life well-lived, a life filled with joy, love, and an unwavering commitment to family. Though he may no longer walk among us, his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Edward’s legacy is one of love, and it is this love that will carry us forward as we hold him in our hearts now and forever. Not with sorrow, but with gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with him. His journey on this earth may have come to an end, but the impact of his life will resonate for generations to come. Edward “Eddie” Smith, a beloved son, brother, uncle, father, and friend, will be truly missed, but never forgotten.

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