Earl Dean Smith, age 74, of Demorest, Georgia, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 11, 2025.
Mr. Smith was born on July 5, 1951, in Habersham County, Georgia, to the late Clyde and Opal Dyal Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, LC and Cathy Smith; brother-in-law, Jim Whitlock; and great-nephew, Tyler Warren.
Earl dedicated many years of his life to serving others through his work. He was employed with Fieldale for 22 years, where he was known for his reliability and strong work ethic. Afterward, he continued his career at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, retiring as a Security Officer, a role he fulfilled with pride and commitment. Outside of work, Earl found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a devoted NASCAR fan and proudly supported the Georgia Bulldogs. He loved his coffee and could almost always be found with a toothpick close at hand. One of his greatest enjoyments was spending time outdoors, especially doing yardwork alongside his grandchildren, moments that created memories they will cherish forever. Above all else, Earl was a family man. He loved deeply and unconditionally, sometimes to a fault, always putting the needs of his family first. He adored his children and doted endlessly over his grandchildren and great-granddaughter. To his grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Papa Earl,” and to his great-granddaughter, he was affectionately called “Paw,” titles that reflected the special bond he shared with each of them.
Survivors include his loving wife, Geraldine Gragg Smith, of Demorest; sons and daughters-in-law, Jeff and Tricia Smith, of Alto; Jason and Dina Simmons, of Mt. Airy; grandchildren, Bryley Simmons, Austin Smith, Colby Simmons, Issac Simmons, Gentri Simmons, Owen Smith; great-granddaughter, Mila-Wren Ortega; and one great-granddaughter on the way; sister, Barbara Whitlock, of Brevard, NC; brother, Bruce Smith, of Sandy Springs; numerous nieces and nephews; and his special companion, Bob the cat.
Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel, with Rev. Scott Ledbetter officiating. Interment will follow at the Yonah Memorial Gardens with Mr. Dwayne Smith officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the funeral home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel
