GEORGE SMITH

George Smith, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, peacefully passed away on August 5, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on September 13, 1935, in Forkland, Alabama, George later made Canton, Ohio, his lifelong home. A devoted man of faith, George was a proud member of St. Paul A.M.E., Mt. Calvary 2nd Baptist, and Mt. Olive Baptist churches of Canton, where he served faithfully as a deacon and sang joyfully in the choirs. George attended Timken High School, where his talent in basketball earned him a place in the Stark County Amateur Sports Hall of Fame. He continued his education at Central State University and later graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business. George served in the United States Army, demonstrating his dedication to his country. He went on to work at Diebold in Canton, retiring after 40 years of service. In addition to his professional achievements, George gave back to his community by serving on the Board of Mental Health and the Stark High School Board of Directors. He was also a proud Mason. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard Smith and Lou Virginia Waiters Smith; twin sisters, Cleola and Viola Smith; and brothers Leonard Jr., Joseph, David, and Douglas Smith. George leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughter Tanya Smith Jones (Kenny); grandson Sedric B. Hill II; brother Franklin D. Smith (Debora); former wife Erma Chapman Smith; special friend Robin Tyler; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends. George will be remembered for his love of MSNBC, sports (especially the Cleveland Guardians and Ohio State), music (particularly James Brown), his playful sense of humor, and his joy in spending time with family and friends. He also had a lifelong passion for collecting train sets. His legacy of kindness, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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