Joe Smith Jr.

October 19, 1938 - January 15, 2021

On Friday, January 15, 2021, Joe Lawton Smith, Jr., loving husband and father of three children, passed away at the age of 82. Joe was born on October 19, 1938 in New Site, Alabama. He was enlisted in the Navy for 4 years, stationed at Port Canaveral, Florida. Joe retired from Barber’s Milk Company after 35 years of service. He was a member of Palmerdale Cross Baptist church. On November 17, 1962, he married Gail Handley Smith. They raised two daughters, Melinda and Lori, and one son Scott. Joe had a love for cars and he enjoyed driving his 1990 Cadillac Brougham; he loved watching the Atlanta Braves and Alabama Football. He also enjoyed the time spent in the presence of his kids and grandkids. Together Joe and Gail taught their grandkids, to glorify God and give thanks to Him everyday. He was known for his quick wit, his infectious smile and his compassionate spirit. Joe was preceded in death by his father Joe L. Smith, Sr., and mother Elizabeth, and sister Sara Nell Atchinson. He is survived by his wife Gail, of 58 years. His three children: Melinda Crawford (John); Lori Gibbs (Jeff); Scott (Erin). He has two brothers, Jerry Smith (Shirley) and Edward Smith. Joe is also survived by his seven grandchildren: Austin Crawford, Chelsea Emerson (Tim), Wesley Crawford (Morgan), Jarrett Gibbs, Keara Gibbs, Evan Crawford, Nora Grace Smith, and a great-grandchild, TJ Emerson, and many nieces and nephews. Family will meet with friends and family from 11-1 on Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Deerfoot Memorial Chapel. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Graveside will follow after service at Forest Crest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please send contributions to Palmerdale Cross Baptist Church, 4950 Faucet Road, Pinson Alabama 35126