Howard Thomas Smith

Mr. Howard Thomas Smith, age 85, passed away Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Howard was born August 22, 1940, in Cedartown, Georgia, son of the late Johnnie Smith and Sarah Maxwell Smith.

Howard proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps as a member of Force Recon and carried a deep respect for the military throughout his life. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Mercer University and enjoyed a distinguished career as a Water Plant Laboratory Director for the City of Atlanta. He later served on the Polk County Water Authority and the Planning and Zoning Board, where his experience greatly benefited the community. An avid golfer, Howard also enjoyed time on the greens with friends. Howard coached girls’ softball, boys’ baseball, and boys’ football for over twenty years as a way to invest in a younger generation.

Howard found great joy in woodworking, especially creating crosses that he freely shared with friends and strangers as an expression of his deep faith in Christ. A longtime member of Second Baptist Church, he served in many ways, including helping establish the Celebrate Recovery food ministry and welcoming others as an usher with a smile, a joke, and a hug. Known for his warmth and friendship, Howard was happiest when surrounded by people, laughing and bringing joy to those around him.

Above all, Howard was most proud of the life he built with his wife, Shirley. Married on March 10, 1963, they created a loving home filled with laughter and steadfast support for their children, grandchildren, and all who entered their lives. Howard’s legacy of commitment, determination, and Christlike love will leave a lasting impact for years to come.

In addition to his parents, Howard is preceded in death by his brothers, Johnny Smith, and Jimmy Smith.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Cornett Smith; son, Johnny Smith; daughter, Candi Storey and her husband, Ty; eight dearly loved grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sister, Julia Sweatman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM, at Second Baptist Church of Cedartown, with Reverend Justin Carter officiating. Interment will follow in Northview Cemetery. Military Rites will be performed by the United States Marine Corps and the Brown-Wright Post 12 Honor Guard. 

The family will receive friends, also on Friday at Second Baptist Church of Cedartown, from 1:00 PM until the service hour.

The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers: Cody Smith, Chase Smith, Chance Smith, Austin Jones, Blake Jones, Sherman Storey, and Benjamin Storey.

Serving as an honorary pallbearer will be Josephine Storey.

The Smith & Miller Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Howard Thomas Smith.