Rev. Jerry Forest Smith

Rev. Jerry Forest Smith was the son of the late Benjamin T. Smith and Juel Garner Smith born December 20, 1937 in Newport, North Carolina.  A graduate of Holmes Theological Seminary in Ministerial Studies of “Bible and Theology” and Christian Ministries, he faithfully served God as an Evangelist and Pastor for over 68 years.  He was a member of Bethel Emmanuel Holiness Church and loved attending the East Laurinburg Church of God. A Godly husband, wonderful father, loving grandfather, and mentor of many, Rev. Smith’s lived his life as a true witness for Jesus.  He completed his earthly journey into Heaven on January 11, 2021 at the age of 83.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by brothers, B.T. Smith, Jr., Jason B. Smith, Carloyn G. Smith, and  sisters, Annie S. Allen, Jackie S. Walker.

Rev. Smith leaves behind his loving wife of 64 years, Hazel Taylor Smith of their home; his daughters, Judy S. Bryant and husband, Jimmy of Laurinburg, Jerrie Kay S. Woods and husband, Keith of Conway, SC, Sharon S. Brayboy and husband, Jeff of Laurinburg; grandchildren, Kristin Robinson (Sammy), Holly Locklear (John) Jerica Hardee (Matthew), Jay Brayboy (Heather), Taylor B. Brayboy; great grandchildren, Tryon C. Sheppard, Markus K. Sheppard, Austin Robinson, Gabriel R. Skipper, Jayden L. Locklear, Kadin A. Mihtar, Braylee C. Skipper, Forest S. Robinson, Reecie Chavis, Braylon L. Brayboy, Gatlin K. Hardee, Jacie K. Hardee; his God children, Rev. D.A. Leonard (Kim), and Judith Gibson; along with a host of many spiritual sons and daughters he mentored for the kingdom of God.  He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, loving family and many friends.

Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 15, 2021 at the East Laurinburg Church of God with burial following in Laurinburg Memorial Park.   A time for viewing only will be from Noon until 1:00 p.m. on Friday at the church.   The family will not be present during this time as they wish to receive friends following the committal service at graveside.

In order to protect the family and others, COVID restriction require facial mask, social distancing with limited attendance for all services.

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