Carl S. Smith

Carl Spolwin Smith, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 19th, 2022 in Jacksonville, Florida. Carl was 84 years of age.

Carl was born on January 20th, 1938 in West Bay, Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands). He served in the merchant marines, as was a common tradition for young Caymanian men at that time, from 1958 to 1961. Following his service in the merchant marines, Carl married the love of his life, Rose Cecelia Smith, in 1961. Rose and Carl grew up next door to each other and knew each other for their entire childhood. It was on one of his return trips home while in the merchant marines that Carl realized that Rose was much more than just “the cute little girl next door”. They quickly fell in love and never looked back! Rose and Carl later moved to the United States in 1964. Carl was employed with National Linen Service (Jacksonville, Fl.) where he retired in 2003 after 38 years of loyal service.

In 1975, while driving to work one morning, Carl was overcome by the Holy Spirit; so much so that he was brought to tears and had to pull over onto the side of the road. He gave his life to Jesus that day. Carl had a heart for evangelism, and regularly shared the salvation message to anyone who would listen. He loved with a Christ-like love that others quickly noticed. That warm smile, and a twinkle in his eyes revealed a gentle soul that made others feel loved and cherished.

Carl leaves behind his devoted wife of 60 years, Rose Cecelia Smith; two loving daughters, Carla Gill (Chip) and Tina Million (Mike); granddaughters Emily Ebanks (Andrew), Sarah Decker (Nick), Jordan Smith, and Amanda Gill; great-grandchildren Alayna and Elijah Ebanks; brothers Walter Smith (Sharon), Jimmy Smith (Gladys), Clifton Smith (Karen); sister Gen Henning; nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends and extended family. For those left behind, Carl’s greatest prayer is that we all come to know the boundless love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, so that we can one day join him in paradise.

A celebration of life for Carl will be held Sunday, July 24, 2022 from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at University Boulevard Nazarene Church, 3930 University Boulevard South, Jacksonville, FL 32216. Following the celebration of life will be a committal service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Greenlawn Cemetery, 4300 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207.

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