George Smith

George W. Smith, 71, was received into heaven, where love and grace abound. After an extended illness, he passed from this life Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016, at his family home in Jackson.

The fifth of nine children, he was born Jan. 2, 1945, to George H. and Nellie M. Schreiner Smith at the family home in Jackson.

George was a 1963 graduate of Jackson High School and maintained a paper route several years in east Jackson. He was a longtime member of New McKendree United Methodist Church in Jackson, previously serving as an usher.

George Smith

In 1963, he became employed at the former International Shoe Factory in Jackson and worked there until its closing in 1988. He then worked at Rubbermaid in Jackson, retiring in 2005 due to health concerns.

George was an avid reader and enjoyed listening to classical music. He was a generous man with the heart of a servant and always was willing to help his family. Though he didn't have children of his own, he spoiled many nieces and nephews, all of whom looked up to their Uncle George.

Loving survivors include four siblings, Dean (Joyce) Smith of Chaffee, Missouri, Laura Jo Smith and Kim Martin of Jackson and Mark Smith (fiancee Linda Elkin) of St. Louis; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved cat, Leo.

He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, Bob, Dale and Charles Smith and Jean Shepherd.

Friends may call from 1 p.m. to service time Saturday at the chapel of McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

The funeral will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at the chapel, with the Rev. Nancy Smith officiating. Interment will be in Russell Heights Cemetery in Jackson.

Memorials may take the form of contributions to Safe Harbor Animal Shelter or donor's choice of church or charity.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.