LeRoy Smith, Jr.

LeRoy Smith, Jr., a beloved servant of God and devoted family man, departed this earthly life on May 7, 2026, in Dayton, Ohio. He was born on May 18, 1949, in Savannah, Georgia, the son of the late LeRoy, Sr. and Dolores (Reagan) Smith.

LeRoy was a lifelong member of the Freewill Baptist Church, a beacon of faith and steadfastness in his congregations. His commitment to Christ was evident in his tireless work with the Gideon ministry, where he traveled to numerous churches, spreading the Word of God and touching countless lives with his testimony. He embraced the sacred role of deacon in several churches he attended. Among all his titles, none filled his heart with more pride than the title of "Poppy," reflecting the profound joy and love he found in his family.

His earthly labor was as honorable as his spiritual one. Alongside his father, LeRoy, Sr., he honed his craft in the welding trade while his father specialized in pipefitting. Together, they traveled across the country, a journey of both work and family togetherness, until eventually settling in Springfield, Ohio where his sons live. There, he took up work at Home Depot, where he was known not only for his skills but for his warm spirit, always ready to assist coworkers and customers alike. A steadfast member of the local 188 Union his entire adult life, LeRoy’s dedication extended beyond church and family into his community and workplace.

He lovingly leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Pamela Diane (Todd) Smith; his sons, Lee (Marcy) Smith and Stephen (Jenni) Smith; his treasured grandchildren, Anya, Brody, Zane (Angelina), Logan, Greyson, and Marlee; as well as three great-grandchildren, Alexandra, Liam and Andre. He is also survived by his sister, Debbie (Ralph) Focht; aunt, Cora Reagan; sisters-in-law, Gail McLean and Linda Crews and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation honoring LeRoy’s life will take place on May 15, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Jackson Lytle and Lewis Life Celebration Center.

A second visitation will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Fox and Weeks Funeral Home, 7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive, Savannah, GA 31406. Service will begin at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Abbey East Cemetery, Savannah, GA.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214. Condolences may be expressed to his family by visiting www.jacksonlytle.com.