Donald Trimble Mortuary, Inc. | Decatur, GA

Obituary For Reverend Dr. William Smith

REV. DR. WILLIAM SMITH, PASTOR OF ONE OF ATLANTA'S LARGEST CONGREGATIONS RECEIVES HIS CROWN IN GLORY

Reverend William Smith, a prominent Pastor of the Israel Missionary Baptist Church, located at 2071 Hosea Williams Drive, S.E. in the historic Kirkwood community of Atlanta, GA fell asleep in death on Tuesday, May 5, 2020. Pastor Smith beautifully exemplified unfailing love in his ministry throughout the years. His unfailing love extended to his beautiful wife, Lisa Jones-Smith, his children, Necia and Douglas, Israel Missionary Baptist Church membership, family, dearest friends, and all whom he gracefully crossed in his walk with Christ. His beaming and genuine smile never met a stranger and his spirit overflowed in faithfulness. To say it was a pleasure to know Pastor Smith is an understatement, as his continued cultivation of the fruitage of the spirit was truly awe-inspiring. An awe-inspiring gentleman Pastor Smith was, and an awe-inspiring gentleman he will be remembered as his seeds of faith ever blossomed and planted throughout his 61 years in the ministry.

God elevated him from the fields of his birthplace in Penfield, Georgia to the Church pulpit. In 1964, Reverend Smith was called to pastor Israel Missionary Baptist Church, previously located at 70 Daniel Street, S.E. Atlanta, GA. After a massive fire destroyed the church facilities, the congregation was relocated to 110 Howard Street, S.E. in Kirkwood area of Atlanta. In obedience to the will of God and realizing the overwhelming spiritual and enormous physical church growth, Pastor Smith led the congregation to its current 900 person capacity sanctuary at its present location. Most notably, though, was his unfailing reliance on God in prayer and meditation on the scriptures. Pastor Smith genuinely enjoyed such reflection, an admirable quality of which exuded in his relationships with others. For he well knew the importance of “rejoicing in the answer” (Proverbs 15:23) in his shepherding of others. His words, so eloquently spoken, invited upwards of 5,000 people to the congregation of Israel Missionary Baptist Church, a ten-fold increase from the original 500 members in 1964. Israel Missionary Baptist Church, a historic landmark of Hosea L. Williams Drive, is admirably remembered by the ministry of a truly historic gentleman. Reverend Smith untiringly pastored and throughout the years has had more than 100 sons come under his leadership.

Though his leadership emanated, his humility and grace were far more reaching. Pastor Smith opened his heart to the joy around him and let gratefulness flow from the inside out unto others. He performed as many as 35 revivals each year and traveled both near and far to spread the powerful word of God. In 1996, Reverend Smith journeyed to the Holy Land and preached on the Sea of Galilee, and was also instrumental in the upbringing of two powerful ministries in both the Virgin Islands and in Haiti. Truly, Pastor Smith beautifully embodied that we are never more than one grateful thought away from an increased peace of mind and a greater peace of heart. Per Matthew 12:28-29, Pastor Smith was lowly in heart and his refreshment was plentiful. “Pleasant sayings are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and a healing to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24) Just as a honeybee spreads pollen from flower to flower resulting in a most vivid bloom, so did Pastor Smith preach the sweet sayings of the Bible. On one occasion while serving as pastor of Israel Missionary Baptist Church, Reverend Smith had more than 65 sheep give their life to Christ and baptized as many as 103 ministers of God. Further, his pleasant sayings were inspiring to countless people, families, and congregations, alike, as his Sunday afternoon radio broadcast ministry aired weekly from a Metro Atlanta Radio Station for seventeen (17) years.

In accordance with Reverend Smith’s favorite scripture, John 3:16, we, too, now await the day that we are reunited with our beloved Pastor, Husband, Father, Brother, and Friend, William Smith. As we envision our dear Reverend William Smith adorned in his favorite white cowboy boots and matching hat, with a beaming smile and gentle eyes twinkling in the sun, we are filled with gratitude... gratitude for having being inspired—even to this day—by his remarkable spiritual leadership and self- sacrificing spirit towards helping others. Although our hearts are saddened, we rejoice in the precious moments shared and memories held with our loving servant of God. His awards, accolades, and affiliations highlight his outstanding outreach, through his loving compassion and care for all of God’s sheep will continually illuminate his memory. Rev. Dr. William Smith, a humble gentleman who preached God’s word for 61 years and served as an outstanding Pastor for 55 years, will firmly be held in God’s perfect memory. “For God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name by ministering and continuing to minister to the holy ones.” (Hebrews 6:10)

A public viewing and Memorial will be held at the Israel Missionary Baptist Church, 2071 Hosea L. Williams Drive SE, Atlanta, GA 30317 on Thursday, May 21st, from 12:00 Noon to 8:00 PM, Friday, May 22nd from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM and Saturday, May 23rd, from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. There will be a Private Family-only Interment on an undisclosed date and time.

He is survived by his loving Wife, Mrs. Melisa (Lisa) D. Jones-Smith; Daughter, Ms. Necia Michelle Smith; Son, Mr. Douglas Bernard Jones, Jr.; Brothers, Rev. and Mrs. John (Darla) Smith, Deacon and Mrs. Emmitt (Linda) Smith, Mr. Joseph Smith (Fannie) and Mr. Roger Smith (Dorothy); and Sisters, Mrs. Cornelia Jones and Mrs. Dollie Robinson.

The Smith Family humbly asks for your prayers and extends their sincere gratitude for your expressions of love.

In lieu of flowers, the Smith Family is requesting that contributions be made to: REV. DR. WILLIAM SMITH SCHOLARSHIP https://www.gofundme.com/rev-dr-william-smith-scholarship

Guest Book

Thank God for your spearheading The Madison Missionary Baptist Association by bring over 15 Churches together from the 1960s to early 2000s. This was a unity that was much needed. May God rest your soul. Madison, Georgia

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Condolences from Rev. Dr. Sandra Jewell. I travel quite often and was out of the country when I heard. His death was recently confirmed to me by my children Christopher and Secanda. Blessings to the family.

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In loving memory to my Baptist every since I was a little girl.. Not on my Pastor but the Pastor to my entire family. I dont know if there is another man on on earth whom I respected more... May you rest in Heaven for a job well done! with all the love we can muster from the entire Carter Family.

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1 Thessalonians 4: 13, 14 Moreover, brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant* about those who are sleeping in death,+ so that you may not sorrow as the rest do who have no hope.+ 14 For if we have faith that Jesus died and rose again,+ so too God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep in death through Jesus.+

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I was really torn apart when I got this word. I do not remember a time when I did not know Rev. Smith. He ministered at Darien Baptist Church in Sparta, GA for at least 50 years during the week of Thanksgiving every year. My grandfather, John Henry Spikes and my grandmother, Gladys Spikes loved this man. Rev Smith was a staple at churches in the middle GA area for many years. Condolences to Mrs. Smith and Necia. I visited Israel several times during my college years at Ga State; I was always in awe of the grandeur of Israel Baptist Church. Rev. Smith was a preaching man, he and Pastor Hall from Darien were two of the greats. Rev. Smith made an impact. Gone but not forgotten. Angel Wright-Lanier, Fayetteville, NC

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To the Smith Family: Pastor Smith will truly be missed. Sending my love and thoughts during this difficult times. My prayers are with you as you face the days ahead. Rosa McPherson-Greene

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To the Smith family . We the children of Rev. J.I. Mccrary would. Like to say you all have. Our deepest sympathy, Rev.Dr. William Smith was a great friend to. Our father and family, and he will be. Truly missed. Rest in peace Rev. Smith. Again, you all have our deepest sympathy.

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What a blessing too have met Pastor William Bill (Moses) Smith In 1978 ! Our family will always cherish our fond memories of u and your family over the years !! We love u too the mood and back

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Our condolences to the Smith family. Rev. William Smith was our guest revivalist here at the Springfield Baptist Church-Comer for many years. He started when his uncle Rev. J. H. Geer was our pastor and he had become family over the years. Rest in peace thy good and faithful servant.

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Well done thy good and faithful servant....It was my honor and pleasure to play for Israel Baptist church under your leadership. You will be missed. God has a brand new angel...Love and peace Rev. Dr. Sue Hampton

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To the Smith family, My heart is heavy and Rejoicing at the same time. My Pastor and My friend finally earned His Wings! I will truly miss that Big Smile and the Love and Compassion He had for people. We had a one of a kind Pastor that tried to live the Sermon He Preached.Family I say to you to continue to Love and Support each other like He Always did. I saw a Pastor with a Big Heart and Personality to match whether in the Pulpit, on the softball field or the basketball courts, in the oh so many Revivals He Preached.You ran a Good race and I Believe GOD said it's time My Child, Come Home for Your Crown. Sincerely Ms. Dan's Howard.

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As a former long-time member of Israel Missionary Baptist Church, from the leadership of Pastor C.S. Jackson, I wish to express my sincere sympathy to the paternal and spiritual family of Pastor William Smith. He is not dead, just merely sleeping until the Lord comes back to gather His own. -Sallie Elizabeth Pope-Howard

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I've been a member of Israel my entire life and Rev Smith has been a great instrument in my life. To the family I send all my love and prayers during this time.

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To the Smith family our hearts are heavy but we know does,t make mistakes Rev. Smith is in a better place rest in peace the Rollins , Beeks, Sheppard and the Duggan family

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You were a special gift from an incredible God, unique,blessed and irreplaceable. Rest in Peace. From Hatti Mitchell and family.

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TO MY PASTOR DR.WILLIAMS SMITH CONTINUE TO REST IN PARADISE..JOB WELL DONE HERE ON EARTH..MY CONDOLENCES GOES OUT TO THE FAMILY AND MY CHURCH MEMBERS..YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE A PLACE IN MY HEART UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN..REST ON PASTOR..

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My condolences to the Smith Family. Stevie Lawrence Ebenezer A.M.E Church Greensboro, Ga. Rev. Miles Walker

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Our condolences to the Smith family. Through your guidance and outreach ministries, so many people were led to Christ and for that we are forever thankful. I have had so many fond memories under your leadership, from softball to church anniversaries, and so on. You will truly be missed. Thank you for all your love and support throughout the years. Smith family, you are continually in our thoughts and prayers. Love Mamie Lewis, Audrey Lewis, Shantana, and Lamar.

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May you Rest in Heavenly Peace, you're reunited with your love ones. Hug and kiss my grandma for me. I know she welcome you with open arms

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God has granted you the PEACE that passes all understanding!!!! You taught me that having a personal relationship with CHRIST is the foundation for for Knowing HIM! AS YOU have for many of us,. performed our marriages, Christensen our children and appointed us to posts that allowed us to serve. Thank you, Servant of GOD!! WE LOVE(D) YOU, THE HARDIN & SAPP FAMILIES.

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God has granted you the PEACE that passes all understanding!!!! You taught me that having a personal relationship with CHRIST is the foundation for for Knowing HIM! AS YOU have for many of us,. performed our marriages, Christensen our children and appointed us to posts that allowed us to serve. Thank you, Servant of GOD!! WE LOVE(D) YOU, THE HARDIN & SAPP FAMILIES.

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Our sincere condolences to our family. Well done thy good and faithful servant,you are now resting with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. RIP cousin. Absent from the body, present with the Lord.Gone but never to be forgotten. Your cousin in Augusta,Ga. Eva Hurt-Hawes and family.

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Rest in peace Pastor Smith. As a child I loved to hear you preach. As an adult I cherished your mannerisms in the pulpit. Tis the Old Ship of Zion, it has landed many of thousands. Welcome Aboard! Praying for the family. Junava Jackson and Family

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We send our heartfelt condolences to the Smith Family. Pastor Smith was truly a man after God's heart. He will be missed by all that knew him and loved him, Take your rest Pastor, a job well done. Donna and Wiley Cooley

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Reverend Smith, you were one of a kind who spiritually impacted the lives of so many...Rest in Paradise and God's Loving Arms, Pastor Smith...my deepest sympathy to the Smith Family. Cora Stovall O'Kelley

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On behalf of the late Evangeline Clowder, she would say to her pastor's family'We pray the love of God enfolds you during your journey through grief. We send you thoughts of comfort."

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My condolences to the Smith family. Rest in peace my pastor you will be truly missed.

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Our lives will be forever changed because of your teaching, your preaching, and your love. We watched you sacrifice so much for God's people. So we proudly and lovingly acknowledge your work here on Earth as the work of a great and faithful servant well done. You will always be in our hearts. Thank you for answering the call of God. Much love, respect, and condolences to First Lady Lisa, daughter Necia, Doug, & the entire Smith family. Sis. Dorethea & Rickus Holt and the Connecting Hunter Family. Rest in Peace!

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Remembering when he called up the entire Frazier family at Daddy's (Rev. Garrett Frazier) Homegoing celebration and told us not to worry. He said Mama and Daddy left is in good hands...his

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Remembering when he called up the entire Frazier family at Daddy's (Rev. Garrett Frazier) Homegoing celebration and told us not to worry. He said Mama and Daddy left is in good hands...his

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Our heartfelt condolences to the family, Israel BC family and friends. Rev. Smith has always been held in the highest regard and Pastor to the Frazier family. My parents, Rev Garrett and Mother Elizabeth Frazier and my sister, Doris served with Rev. Smith until they went to be with the Lord. Our prayers are being lifted to the family during this season of bereavement and we send our love to reach of you! Minister Beverly Frazier on behalf of: Mike Frazier, Apostle Myra Frazier; Aunts Nina Willis and Pecola Kirby

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Sending my condolences to Mrs Lisa Smith, Necia, and the Smith family. Rev. Smith was passionate about Christ and the people around him. He cared about others and their relationship with God. I sing this song and remember...There's a Blessing in this House for You! Although you are gone, you will never be forgotten by the Reid family...Aminah, Mary, and Lionel.

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I'm so happy I grew up knowing Pastor Smith. It always felt good to know that even at a church with hundreds of people visiting every Sunday he knew me personally. Pastor Smith didn't just shake hands or preach and run out. This man knew exactly who I was, who my parents were, where I went to college, and what I was up to. Although my eyes fill with tears, my heart swells with love for this amazing man.

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Sending my condolences to Mrs. Smith & her family and the entire Irsael Baptist Church. May Rev. Smith rest in peace. To God be the Glory!

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Rev.Smith was like a sin to my father the late Rev E.D. Thomas of Athens GA. I remember his visits and the many revivals I attended as a child. On behalf our entire family may God gives this family comfort in knowing his work on earth was great and mighty and God reward in heaven of eternal life will be even greater. For he lives. Sympathy to all.

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My heartfelt condolences go to the SMITH family Rev. Dr. K. E. Harris

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May your work down here speak for you rest in peace.

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Rest well Rev Smith your work is done I can truly say you were a man after God own heart you loved God and you loved God people you touched many many lives in your time you will be missed and well remember my prayers are with your Family

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Pastor Smith, through that Saturday morning bible study, taught me what it means to have a relationship with God. It was there my curiosity peeked and I began to study on my own. For that I cannot say THANK YOU ENOUGH!!! Your commitment was unmatched and your love for your sheep something to behold!!! RIP Pastor!!!! Betty J.

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Rest well. Rev. William Smith. Your work on Earth is done!!! Joyfully you answered the Master's voice that whispered to you ..Servant of God....come on Home!!! Peace and Condolences to your family and Israel Baptist Church.

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The Freeman family extends our sincere condolences to the Smith family. Pastor Smith has been a good shepherd and now he has earned his wings with our father. From baptisms, weddings and annointing new babies he will always be remembered in our hearts RIP Pastor!

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My condolences to the family. Reverend Smith was an awesome man. As a teenager, he instilled in me, a lot of values that I live by to this day! He was always kind, funny and very personable. No matter how long you stayed away from Israel, he knew his sheep by name. What a gift! Rest in Heaven Reverend Smith! Well done.

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Our condolences to the Smith Family. Pastor Smith will truly be missed. He and my dad was close friends for 50 plus years and the family was like our family. Gone from sight to be with the Lord but forever in our hearts and memories. Love you Pastor and family.

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