Jesse E. Smith Sr.

Jesse E. Smith Sr., 67, avid western lover, man of God, and beloved family man peacefully passed away Saturday, September 18, 2021, in his home in Indianapolis IN.

Jesse served his country in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged from service.  He lived a life of transforming grace. Every person that knew him from his life was witness to the transformative power of Jesus Christ in him. He lived a servant’s life and modeled a servant’s heart. He loved on people with hugs and kisses, smiles, and jokes. He called them and had long conversations. He fed into their lives. He pointed them all to Jesus.  “He finished well” and is now resting in the arms of our loving Father.

Jesse is survived by his wife of 42 years Mary Joyce Smith, his children Arbana Atkinson, Freedom Nicole Smith, and Jesse Smith Jr., God-son Tone’ Griffey, siblings Carletta Ringo, Gwen Ford, Marilyn Warren, and Frank Smith. As well as a host of grandchildren (Anthony Atkinson, Arthur Church, Arbana Church/Nick Densford) and great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Jesse was predeceased by his father James Smith Sr., mother Bernice Smith, brother James Smith Jr., and sister Marquetta Percell.

Memorial services will be held Friday, October 1, 2021, at Legacy Cremation & Funeral Services, 5215 N. Shadeland Avenue, with a service to start at 2:00pm. Visitation will be held 1:00 PM- 2:00 PM at the funeral home.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, October 3, 2021 at Perrin Park, Jeffersonville, Indiana, from 2 – 6 p.m.