Sidney Smith, Jr., the third son of Sidney Abel Smith and Bessie Smith, was born March 13, 1942 into a loving family in Atoka, Tennessee. From a young age, working alongside his mother and father, he developed a strong work ethic that was exhibited throughout his life.
In 1964, Sidney was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam Conflict era. Sidney underwent rigorous training in Oklahoma and earned the Sharpshooter badge during his preparations for the conflict. He operated artillery cannons and rose through the ranks quickly, achieving the rank of sergeant in record time. Sidney's talents extended to barbering, where he skillfully cut the hair of his fellow soldiers.
Sidney was a true Renaissance man, with a wide range of interests, from gardening to woodworking as well as a strong desire for entrepreneurship. As a dedicated family man, he sought to ensure the well-being and success of his children. He taught them the value of hard work through gardening, raising livestock and managing an orchard. He believed in treating everyone with respect, regardless of their appearance, and his ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.
During his professional career, Sidney worked as a chemical operator in the vegetable oil process at Humko Chemical, where he was recognized for his productivity and leadership. He later became a store manager at Gordon's Jewelers, where he earned several national awards for managing top-performing stores throughout Memphis. His dedication and work ethic spanned over two decades in this role.
Sidney was a true man of God. His faith and commitment to service extended to his role as a minister and former pastor, where he offered spiritual guidance and support to those in need. He had a zeal for helping the needy, visiting the elderly, and comforting the sick and shut-in.
Sidney was preceded in death by his parents: Sidney Abel and Bessie Young Smith; siblings: Henry, Edward, Henrietta, Eva Elois, Nellie, and Elbert. Sidney leaves his wife of 56 years Joyce, and brother, James Thomas Smith (Martha), his daughters Trina Maclin ( Rodney), Corlis Mitchell (Kevin), Wanda Chunduru ( Ravi), Tracie Bardwell ( Michael), Jennifer Little (Melvin), and sons Sidney Smith (Laquissa), and Christopher Smith (Wendy), 14 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends to cherish his memory
A visitation for Sidney will be held Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralGermantownParkway.com for the Smith family.
