J. Larry Smith

J. Larry Smith passed away at his residence on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at the age of 87.  He was an Evans County native that lived in North Carolina for many years before moving back to Claxton in 2000.

Larry lived a life marked by warmth, humor, and a genuine love for people. He was known as someone who never met a stranger, and his easygoing spirit and quick wit made him a joy to be around. A jokester who was very funny, he brought laughter to many and will be remembered for the happiness he shared so freely. Above all, he loved his wife and his “girls,” and that devotion was at the heart of his life.

Larry was a graduate of Claxton High School, Class of 1957.  He attended Middle Georgia College and Georgia Southern College. He spent most of his working career in tractor parts sales, building a life through steady work and dedication.

He also enjoyed the simple pleasures that made life rich and memorable. Fishing, dancing, tennis, and football were among the pastimes he especially loved, and these interests reflected his energetic and outgoing nature.

Larry is a member of Gospel Baptist Church and is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph S. and Pauline Smith; grandsons, Aiden Harper and Austin Underhill.

He is survived by his loving wife, Emely Smith of Claxton; his daughters and sons in law, Kim and Donnie Harper of Kinston, NC and Michelle and Gary Underhill of Fredericksburg, VA; brother and sister-in-law, Lynn and Sally Smith of Bluffton, SC; 5 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00am on Friday, October 16, 2026, with the funeral services to follow at 11:00am from the Chapel of the Glennville Funeral Home with the Reverend Mike Gay officiating.  Interment will be in the Union Methodist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be John Measer, Lynn Smith, Aaron Parker, Garrett Underhill, Gary Underhill and Jack Feller.

Glennville Funeral Home has the honor to serve the Smith family.