Willis H. Smith

Died: Nov. 7, 2009

KINGSPORT -- Willis H. Smith, 72, of Harvest, Ala., died Saturday at his home.

His family stated, "He went to be with the Lord."

Born in Greene County, he was a son of the late Cecil and Faughn Smith.

He lived in Kingsport for more than 40 years, moving to Alabama about five years ago.

Mr. Smith retired from Holston Defense Corp. with more than 30 years of service.

He attended Temple Baptist Church.

Mr. Smith was a member of Greeneville Lodge No. 3, F&AM, and attended the Kingsport Lodge No. 688, F&AM. He was also a member of Jericho Temple Shrine Club and the Knoxville Scottish Rite club.

Survivors include his wife: Deanna Taylor Smith; a son: Todd and Michelle Smith of Madison, Ala.; a granddaughter: Whitney Smith; a brother: Lynn Smith of Kingsport; a special niece: Cheryl Noland; and two special nephews: Chad Smith and Chris Smith.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Mrs. Fred (Dorothy) Harrell.

The family will receive friends from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday at Carter-Trent Funeral Home, 520 Watauga St., Kingsport.

The funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel at 6 p.m. The Rev. Brian Schuler and Rev. Richard Harris will officiate.

A military committal service will be held at 11 o'clock Wednesday morning in Mount Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery in Afton. American Legion Post No. 3/ 265 along with the Tennessee National Guard will conduct the service.

Pallbearers will be Terry Noland, Todd Bailey, Seth Bailey, Mark Coates, Elbert Bridwell, Randy Orten, Chad Smith, Tom Murray, Cary Fillers and Cecil Fillers.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 Farris Road, Greenville, SC 29605.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.cartertrent.com