Mr. Hiram Joshua Smith, Jr., age 66, of Douglas, Ga., passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, at his home in Douglas, Ga. following an extended illness.
On January 20, the world lost a true original in Hiram Joshua Smith Junior. Born on April 4th, 1956, he was the fourth of six children – five boys and one girl – and from a young age, he was known for his love of baseball and his strong arm. After serving in the Army, he attended community college and went on to become a skilled mechanic, welder, and all around handyman. He could rebuild any kind of engine in an afternoon with nothing but a few tools, a flimsy manual, and a few cuss words. He was a master of welding and building things with his hands and he was able to see the potential for restoration in almost everything.
But perhaps Joshua’s most endearing trait was his love of simple pleasures. He loved moon pies and Pepsi, watermelons from the garden, and country music. He was a fisherman who knew the secrets of finding the perfect fishing hole, and loved nothing more than spending a day at the river. He was fearless and could take a head off a snake in seconds. He loved the Georgia Bulldogs and was a die-hard Atlanta Braves fan, listening to or watching every game, cheering as loud as he could at the tv screen and always believing they would pull through. He could easily be the life of the party, with a charisma and warmth that drew people to him.
Despite his many gifts and talents, Joshua wrestled with his fair share of struggles, but at his core, he was truly a tender man who attempted throughout the years to love his daughters and grandchildren in the ways that he could. Rest in peace, Dad, and may you be remembered for the ways you tried to be the man we knew you could be.
Survivors Include:
Wife of 35 years: Shera Jane Mikell of Douglas, Ga.
3 Daughters: Questa Tingler and family of Savannah, Ga.
Shannon Phillips and family of Jesup, Ga.
Heather Medley and family of Rome, Ga.
3 Brothers: Quincy “Buddy” Smith of Gadsden, Al.
Don Smith and wife Karen of Phoenix City, Al.
Johnny Smith and wife Candace of Colorado
5 Grandchildren: Austyn, Zachary, Hannah, Mills, and Harper Jane.
Several nieces, nephews, and other relatives also survive.
Graveside funeral services for Mr. Smith will be held on Monday, January 23, 2023 at 2:00 P.M. at Willacoochee City Cemetery with Rev. Walt Deloach officiating. The interment will follow in the Willacoochee City Cemetery.
Visitation for Mr. Smith will be held on Monday, January 23, 2023 from 1:30 – 2:00 P.M. at Willacoochee City Cemetery.
Relihan Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.