Jerry Smothers

Jerry Leon Smothers of Gadsden, TN passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at the age of 84 surrounded by family.

Born to the late Buford Smothers and the late Christine Joyner Craven on April 20, 1942, in Vale, TN. He is survived by his wife, Joan McElroy Smothers of Gadsden, whom he married October 21st, 1963; they spent sixty-two wonderful years together.

Along with his wife, he is also survived by his two children: Joy Smothers of Gadsden and Jason (Angie) Smothers of Humboldt, TN. In addition, he leaves behind six grandchildren: Hunter Smothers, McKayla Smothers, Dalton (Georgie) Smothers, Skyler Smothers, McKenna Smothers, and Julia Finley.

He is preceded in death by a son in infancy, Joseph Leon Smothers, a sister Diane Turner, and a brother, Derrell Smothers.

Jerry served as a pastor of Baptist churches across West Tennessee, Northern Missouri, and Belleville while simultaneously owning and operating a lawn care company for over 50 years before retiring. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, or anything that involved being outdoors. He also adored spending time with his family, especially their annual trip to the Smokies. A lifelong fan of the Tennessee Vols and the St. Louis Cardinals, he passed his love for the sports and teams down to them.

Ridgeway Funeral Home will be handling the services, located at 201 Dunlap Street, Paris, TN 38242. Visitation will be held Friday, September 25, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM, with the funeral following, officiated by Randy McElroy. In addition, a Celebration of Life Visitation will be held at the Antioch Baptist Church the same day, from 10:00 AM through 12:30 PM, located at 425 Lewis Road, Humboldt, TN 38343.

Burial will follow services in Prospect Cemetery in Hollow Rock, TN.

Hunter Smothers, Dalton Smothers, Jake Miller, Len Sutton, Eddie McElroy, and Phillip Jessie will be serving as pallbearers for the service. Honorary pallbearers are Butch Walters, Dallas Sutton, Harry Brubaker Jr., and Charlie L. Taylor.

Memorials may be made to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering ℅ West Jackson Baptist Church 580 Oil Well Road, Jackson, TN 38305.

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