Linton Perry NeSmith

Linton Perry NeSmith of Jacksonville, Florida went to his heavenly home on Thursday, September 15, 2022, at the age of 81. He was a beloved father, grandfather, respected restaurateur, and devout Christian. Linton passed away peacefully with his family by his side.

Linton was born in Brooklet, Georgia on September 21, 1940, to father Perry Foy NeSmith and mother Bertha Newman. Linton graduated from Savannah Preparatory Christian Academy in 1959, he was second in his class and President of the student body. After graduation he earned a degree in Pastoral Ministry and was ordained in 1961. Linton always had a love for God in his heart and had a life-long calling to share and preach his gospel.

He lived by his two favorite Bible verses.

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my Redeemer. Psalms 19:14

Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21

Although his love for God and desire to spread his word never faltered, Linton went to work at First Federal Savings and Loans in Statesboro, GA to help support his growing family.

One of his funniest quotes he often said was, “I know what it’s like to feed six kids with only one pork chop.” This is why he later became very enthusiastic about the restaurant business; he then went on to own and operate several restaurants in Georgia: Jodi’s Seafood, NeSmith Seafood and Brooklet Lunch and Breakfast.

In 1980 Linton moved his family to Jacksonville, Florida. He worked as a consultant for many restaurateurs. His path led him to a career as an area supervisor, franchise manager, trainer, and inspector for Woody’s Bar-B-Q until his retirement.

Linton was an incredibly wise, charismatic, and outrageously funny man. In his death he left behind priceless and beautiful written treasures for his family. In his own words his parting message to his children and family:

“When I am gone and I have come to the end of my journey and have traveled my last mile, please forget if you can, I ever frowned. I pray you only remember my smile. Forget any unkind words spoken but instead, remember the honorable deeds I have done. Forget I ever had heartache, remember I had loads of fun and laughter. Forget I stumbled or fell, remember I have fought hard battles and won. Seize the day for tomorrow is never promised. Forget to grieve my passing, I would not have you sad for a day. In summer, please gather some flowers and remember the place I lay. Come in the evening when the sun paints the sky, stand a few moments beside me, and remember only my best.

I am content. Be good my children. See you tomorrow. I love you. I am at peace with God, I am okay. I am in the hands of Jesus. Be good to each other.” Dad

Linton is preceded in death by his wife Gloria NeSmith, his son Adam Thompson NeSmith, his granddaughter Carmen Leeann NeSmith and sister Rita Lee Shaw and Lure Barnard. He is survived by his children Stephen NeSmith, Thomas NeSmith, Jodi Cooley, Jennifer Shedlin and Rebekah NeSmith; daughter-in-law Cathy NeSmith, sons-in-law, Al Cooley, and Jonathan Shedlin; grandchildren Jacob Adam Shedlin, Taylor Virginia Shedlin, Jamie Tatum Cooley, Joshua Alan Cooley, Vanessa Leeann McGhghy, Stephen Russell NeSmith, Tabitha Fay NeSmith, Jacob Elijah See, Savannah Lee NeSmith, Sarah Rose NeSmith, Alex Ryan NeSmith Brown, Emma Grace NeSmith, and Hannah Webb; great-grandchildren Riley NeSmith, Genevieve NeSmith, Mariah Brown, Emily Michelle Lee, Halle Kay Von Dolan, Cole Tatum Cooley, Kayla Enid Cooley, Tate Alan Cooley; grand-dog Ollie NeSmith

A visitation for Linton is planned for Thursday, September 22, 2022, from 6 pm to 8 pm. The visitation will be at Hardage- Giddens Oaklawn Chapel & Cemetery 4801 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32207. A graveside funeral is planned for Friday, September 23, 2022, at 10 am at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Cemetery. The family will welcome family and friends immediately following services for a small reception. All are welcome to attend.