John Lee Smith, age 83, a native of Coy and a resident of Jackson, was born April 14, 1927 to the late Lila Hornes and Clarence Smith. He died Aug. 14, 2010 at his home.

Affectionately known as "Big John," he was a faithful member of Mt. Gilead Missionary Baptist Church where he served as chairman of deacons, assistant superintendent of Sunday School and wherever else he was needed. Mr. Smith was a dedicated member of the Union Missionary District, serving his church, the district and community dutifully until his health prevented him from doing so.

A veteran of the United States Navy, he served in WWII in the Asiatic Pacific and received the Victory Ribbon. Mr. Smith retired from Boise as an operator.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Wilson.

Survivors include his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Stella Davis Smith of Jackson; four sons, Henry Smith of Carrollton, Texas, Virgil (Christie) Smith of Flower Mound, Texas, Vincent (Pamela) Smith of Peterman and Johnny (Cora) Kyser of Mobile; one daughter, Marilyn Smith (Earnest) Moss of Carlton; one brotherin law, Handy (Hattie) Davis of Mobile; two sisters-in-law, Augustine Davis and Della Davis Ludgood, both of Mobile; one devoted grandson, Hugh Smith of Jackson; nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, one devoted cousin, Margaret King of San Antonio, Texas and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be Friday, Aug. 20, 1 p.m., at the Mt. Gilead Missionary Baptist Church in Carlton with the Rev. Lee Bush Jr., pastor, and the Rev. Clayton Davis Sr. as eulogist. Viewing is today, Thursday, from 3-7 p.m., at Andrews Funeral Home and Friday from noon until the funeral hour at the church.

There will be Military rites at graveside following the interment in Mt. Gilead Cemetery. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall of the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society Association, 900 Western America Circle S- 101, Mobile, AL 36609; or the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312.

As a courtesy of Andrews Funeral Home, Mr. Smith’s obit may be viewed at www.viewobit.com where you may also leave a personal condolence to the family.