John William 'Smitty' Smith Jr.

Mr. John William Smith, Jr. “Smitty”, age 76, died Monday evening at his home after a long illness under the care of Hospice Savannah surrounded by friends and family. The Bulloch County native was a long haul trucker for 35 years .He retired in 1990 from Great Dane Trailers in Savannah after 17 years of service. With his excellent driving record of no chargeable accidents, Mr. Smith attained membership into the Million Mile Club and the National Safety Council. He was a member of the Tabernacle of Praise Church of God. Mr. Smith was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather who will be deeply missed.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Mrs. Helen Riggins Smith, of Rincon; a daughter and son-in-law, Cheryl Elaine and Hugh Harville of Nevils; two sons and daughters-in-law, William “Owen” and Diane Smith of Brooklet and Mark Lemuel and Debra Smith of Guyton; five grand children, Jamie Smith, Chris Smith, Austin Casbourne, Caleb Smith and Shelby Smith; two great grandchildren, Caleb Drake Smith and Rebecca Smith; a brother, Tony Smith of FL and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Thursday from

The funeral service will be held Friday at the Rincon Church of God in at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend Wayne Merritt officiating, assisted by Reverend Edward Wood. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the service.

Honorary pallbearers will be employees and truck drivers of Great Dane Trailers.

Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Savannah.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Savannah P.O. Box 13190 Savannah, Ga.31416

Friends and relatives may sign the online register book at www.hodgesmoore.com.

Hodges-Moore Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.