Edward W. Smith Jr.

All are welcome for his Visitation (11a) and Service (noon) on Saturday, August 31st, at Meredith's downtown, and his Life Celebration across the street at Preservation Hall from 1-3pm.

Edward Smith, April 1945 - August 2024.Son of E.W. Sr., a Minister, and Cordie, a school principal, Ed was the third of 5 siblings. He graduated Morehouse High School in Bastrop, Louisiana, being one of the featured speakers at his graduation.

Ed graduated with his degree from Southern University in, was an accomplished baritone player and participated in their heralded marching band. He married his HS sweetheart and true love, Carolyn (ex-wife, now deceased). They had one child, Alicia.

Daddy was a special and unique person. Whip smart and ever curious, he dearly loved to learn and laugh. And chat, as many of you know! He was always up for exchanging ideas with all different kinds of people, and cared for young and old alike. Always quick with a smile and a friend to all, he was willing to share whatever he had. He excelled at many things: From youthful Athletics like swimming, musical endeavors, and oratory... On through to his career over the decades: At Boeing, Xerox, National Alliance of Business, United Way and RUSD. Ed was an outstanding businessman, and also educator in the RUSD. He maintained many business relationships, and his students gravitated to him long after they had gone on. His business acumen made him a superstar, but he routinely spoke so fondly of his teaching experiences and the mutually positive impact of his footprint.

He was creative, energetic, smart and knew a lot of things beyond common thought. He was a kindhearted & loving son, brother, husband and father. He was a lifelong dog AND cat lover, and always had furry friends around.

He was a voracious bible scholar who studied The Word daily, whose hobbies included the avocational, like motorized sports and a love of Aviation. And Daddy was a Packers fan like his dad, as well as a Bucks & NASCAR fan.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents, siblings Gerald and Sadie, and former wife Carolyn Jackson. He is survived by his daughter Toni/Alicia, brothers, Dr. Robert Smith (Pat) of LA, and Cordell Smith of WI, former sister and brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many other loving relatives. RIP

The service will be live streamed https://www.facebook.com/meredithfuneralhome/