Mr. John Lee Smith, Jr. of 263 Coney Road, North, Cordele, Georgia died Friday, September 23, 2022 at Emory Healthcare in Decatur, Georgia.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the J. W. Williams Funeral Home Porte Cochere in Cordele, Georgia.  The burial will follow at Gibb Chapel Cemetery, Penia Community, Cordele, Georgia.  Everyone in attendance is asked to please wear a mask and to practice social distancing.

On August 3, 1966, Deacon John Lee Smith, Sr. and Pastor Geraldine Harvey Smith were blessed with the birth of a son.  John Lee Smith, Jr. was born in Cordele, Crisp County, Georgia.

Known to his family and friends by his nickname, "Blade," he was educated in the public school system of Crisp County.  He was a graduate of Crisp County High School.

Early in life he was introduced to Jesus Christ and he accepted him as his Savior.  John was a faithful member of the Mount Bethel Baptist Church.  He willingly served in many capacities of the church.

Known as a quiet man, John possessed a great love for his family.  He enjoyed sharing special moments with his family.  A hard worker, a wonderful provider, and a man of great character he never waivered to show love and concern for those who were near and dear to his heart.  When not enjoying a good race, he could find great peace and comfort while fishing.

On Friday, September 23, 2022 he answered the call of our Heavenly Father.  With hearts full of sadness, we take comfort in knowing that he along with his parents, his siblings and other family members are at peace.

Precious memories are forever in the hearts of his  loving and devoted wife, Mrs. Lachantay Ray Smith of Cordele, Georgia; his loving and devoted children, Mr. Davanis Smith and Ms. Jasmeanne McGrady both of Cordele, Georgia; his beloved grandson, Master Landyn Smith of Vienna, Georgia; his loving sisters, Ms. Melissa Smith of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Ms. Selena West and Ms. Winifred Wilson both of Cordele, Georgia; his caring brothers, Mr. Johnathan (Lacresia) Smith of Cordele, Georgia, Mr. Brandon (Preanna) Clark of Tifton, Georgia, and Mr. Ricky Smith of Cordele, Georgia; his aunts, Mrs. Ethell (Edward) Mumphery of Cordele, Georgia, Ms. Eula Harvey, Ms. Mary Harvey, and Ms. Glenda Harvey all of West Palm Beach, Florida; his parents-in-law, Mr. Neal and Mrs. Earnestine Ray of Cordele, Georgia; his brother-in-law, Mr. Casey (Corenthian) Ray of Vienna, Georgia; his sister-in-law, Mrs. Montoya (Terrence) Williams of Sylvester, Georgia; a host of nieces and nephews; many cousins, other    relatives and many sorrowing friends.