Mr. Joseph Smith of 305 North 4th Street, Vienna, Georgia died Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at his residence.

The funeral service will be held  Monday, July 15, 2024 at 3:00  p.m. in the chapel of the J. W. Williams Funeral Home in Cordele, Georgia. The burial, with military honors, will follow at the Bethel Cemetery in Cordele, Georgia.

Everyone entering the funeral home for visitations or services is required to wear a mask and to practice social distancing.  A mask must be worn throughout the stay.  You must supply your own mask.

Joseph Smith, Sr., the son of Curtis Smith and Ruth Murray Smith, was born on January 24, 1945. Born in Dooly County, Georgia, he was educated in the public schools. He was a proud Rattler of the Vienna High & Industrial School.

Upon the completion of high school, Joseph enlisted in the United States Army. He served his country with honor and distinction earning several medals and commendations. Having completed his enlistment commitment and earning an Honorable discharge, Joseph returned home to Dooly County. It was at this time he began his career as a law enforcement officer.

Joseph was gifted with a beautiful singing voice. He also had a special love for horses and dogs. Although using a wheelchair and a 100 percent disabled veteran, Joseph still enjoyed special moments with family and friends.

On Tuesday, July 2, 2024, he peacefully transitioned from this life. His parents and his siblings, Josephine Smith, his twin, Otis Smith, Winston Smith, Lenard Smith, Lenward Smith, Eddie Smith, Edward Smith and Rudean Smith, each preceded him in death.

He leaves precious memories to his loving family, his   children, Cassandra Lawson of Unadilla, Georgia, Samuel (Linda) Merrell of Jacksonville, Florida, Arzinya (Gary)  Buissereth and Crystal Smith both of Atlanta, Georgia,   Samantha (Eldridge) Tate of Toledo, Ohio, and Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr. of Warner Robins, Georgia; 10 grandchildren; four great grandchildren; his brother,  Bobby Joe  Smith of Jacksonville, Florida; his sister, Barbara (John Henry) Bembery of Columbus, Georgia; several nieces and     nephews, to include his devoted nephews Curtis Smith and Kurtavis Smith of Vienna,  Georgia; a host of cousins, other relatives and many sorrowing friends.