Howard Hilton Smith

Born in Manhattan, New York City on July 8, 1946, Howard was an off-Broadway actor and modeled for the Montgomery Ward catalogue during his childhood years. After moving to Jacksonville, he graduated from Ribault High School in 1965, where he played varsity football. Howard joined the U. S. Marine Corps in November 1965, honorably served his country for 20 years and was a Vietnam War veteran. Upon his retirement, he joined the Florida East Coast Railway full-time while earning his bachelor’s degree through night-school. After 13 years with FEC, he joined CSX and worked another 17 years. He loved surfing, fishing, and was an avid Florida Gators and Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

Howard accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior on December 25, 1966, and was a member of Kernan Boulevard (formerly Southside Estates) Baptist Church for more than 35 years. He faithfully taught an adult Sunday School class for many years.

He was proceeded in death by his mother, Lucille Grassi Smith; father, Jesse E. Smith; mother-in-law, Audrey “Mimmie” Tittle and father-in-law, Dudley Tittle, Jr.

He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 57 years, Linda F. Smith; daughter Sandy Smith Manwell (Mark); son Jason B. Smith (Shannon); two sisters, Veronica L. Metcalfe (Michael) and Francine L. Wendelboe (Matthew); two brothers, Richard L. Smith and Joe Smith; five grandchildren (Parker, Preston, Abbey, Peri, and Aaron); three brothers-in-law, Tommy W. Tittle (Betty), Ronnie E. Tittle (Linda), and Charles L. Vail; and numerous nieces and nephews and other close family members.

A visitation for Howard will be held Thursday, October 27, 2022 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Kernan Blvd. Baptist Church, 4000 Kernan Blvd. South, Jacksonville, FL 32224.

A funeral service will occur Thursday, October 27, 2022 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, 4000 Kernan Blvd. S, Jacksonville, FL 32224.

A graveside service will occur Friday, October 28, 2022 from 12:30 PM to 1:00 PM at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hgmandarin.com for the Smith family.