Bro. Richard H. Smith

It is with a heavy heart and yet filled with hope in the promises of our Lord that we announce the passing of Brother Richard H. Smith, 82, of Iuka, MS. He returned to his Heavenly Father on January 30, 2025, at Tishomingo Community Living Center. Richard’s life was a melody of service and devotion to God. For over 55 years, he dedicated himself as a minister, bringing joy through song and praise, directing choirs with a passion that inspired all who were blessed to hear him. He dutifully served congregations across Florida, Mississippi, and Arkansas, and had the honor of singing at the Inauguration of Mississippi Governor Cliff Finch in 1976. His heart resonated with the love of Christ, particularly for the youth, children, and those less fortunate. He was a loving foster parent, a worker for unwed teen mothers in Arkansas, and a cherished member of the Landmark Quartet. He also recorded the touching solo album titled 'Because He Lives'. Through his life and ministry, countless souls were touched and hearts filled with the light of God's love; indeed, Richard was an invaluable blessing.

Richard leaves behind a loving family, including his devoted wife, Sherry Brown Smith, and his cherished children: Deborah Jourdan, Wanda Southward (Bryan), and Scott Smith (Dana). His legacy also lives on through his grandchildren: Molly Self, Camille Davis (Jarrod), Ellie Lockhart (Sam), Luke Smith, and Katie Jourdan, along with great-grandchildren: Wyatt Lewellen, Gatlin Miller, Decker Lewellen, Nola Self, Amelia Davis, and Navy Self. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Richard Lee and Gladys Sloan Smith, as well as his dear sister, Norma Lemmons. We celebrate the reunion he has now with them in the presence of our God.

Cutshall Funeral Home of Iuka, MS has been entrusted with the arrangements. A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM, at Tishomingo Baptist Church, followed by a service at 3:00 PM, officiated by Bro. Rusty Fair and Bro. Wesley Stephens. He will be laid to rest in Paradise Cemetery. Pallbearers will include Luke Smith, Jarrod Davis, Michal Miller, Sam Lockhart, Wyatt Lewellen, Gatlin Miller, and Decker Lewellen, with Bryan Southward serving as an honorary pallbearer. In this time of sorrow, the family expresses their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Gentiva Hospice and the caregivers at Tishomingo Community Living Center for their compassion and dedication.