Henry Edward Smith, lovingly known as
“Eddie” passed away peacefully at the age of 61 on December 4, surrounded by
his loving family. Eddie was born in 1963, in Limestone County to Alvin and
Reda Smith of Athens.
He was a beacon of incredible strength, compassion, and
humor. Eddie bravely served his country for 20 years in the United States Army
National Guard. A testament to his unwavering commitment to service and duty
were not marked only by his bravery, but the deep bonds formed with his fellow
service men and women. Eddie’s greatest joy in life was his big family.
He is
survived by his three daughters, Erica (Jessica) Houk, Kayla (Stevie)
Burrough, Krissy (Jatias) Smith, seven grandchildren, Nate Steeples, Evan May,
Landon Steeples, Jeremiah May, Hunter
Steeples, Joshua Burrough, Jacob Adams
(Autumn) and Ka’Yonna Blu, who will carry on his strength, kindness, humor and
love. He also leaves behind a stepmother, Sandy Smith, two brothers, Anthony
Smith; Stan Smith, along with two stepsisters, Lisa Rose and Lori Green.
Eddie
is preceded in death by his parents Alvin and Reda Smith, niece Julie Dawn
Smith, and nephew Joel Smith.
In addition to his family, Eddie leaves
behind a legacy of love, laughter and service. He will be best remembered by
his big smile and contagious laugh. He found joy in the small things and was
dedicated to always helping others, as he never met a stranger. He will always
be remembered for his big heart and unshakable faith to see the good in
everyone. Even though Eddie’s physical presence will be deeply missed, his
spirit lives on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Graveside service to
celebrate the life of Eddie will be held on Monday, December 9 th, 2024, at
2pm, at Pettusville Methodist Church Cemetery. His grandsons will be the
pallbearers with honorary pallbearers will be Jatias Turner and Ka’Yonna Blu.
The family would like to thank the Aveanna Hospice of Huntsville for their
incredible care and support during this difficult time.
“The only way to have a friend is to be
one.” Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Memorials may be made to the Smith family for
expanses.