Jay Merrill Smith, age 75, of Trenton, GA, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, July 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Merrill was a gifted musician who found great joy in playing and singing gospel and bluegrass music. He was especially skilled with the guitar and mandolin, and although he never quite mastered the fiddle, he always enjoyed trying. A humble and God-fearing man, Merrill lived a life of quiet strength and generosity. His door was always open to those in need, and his love for the Lord was evident in everything he did.
He was a faithful member of Straightway Baptist Church in Bryant, AL, and a dedicated employee of Kenco, where he retired after 45 years of service. Merrill’s greatest joy came from his family. He adored his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. When he wasn’t making music, he enjoyed working on old cars and tending his garden.
Merrill is survived by his children, Vaniecia (Tim) Ferguson, Abby (Chris) White, and Matthew Smith Sr.; brother, Brent (Mary Jo) Smith; sister, Sue Smith; grandchildren, Jesse, Toby, Jordan, Alison, Brittany, Matthew, and Jacob; fourteen great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Imogene Smith; son, Kelly M. Smith; parents, J.E. and Janie Smith; brothers, Pete (Janie) Smith and Dewey Smith; and brother-in-law, Ronnie Smith.A funeral service to honor Merrill’s life will be held at 12:00 PM ET on Thursday, July 31st, in the Bryant Chapel of Moore Funeral Home with Brother Gary Bone officiating. He will be laid to rest at Straightway Cemetery.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday, July 30, from 1:00 PM until 8:00 PM ET, and on Thursday from 10:00 AM until the service hour.
Merrill’s legacy of love, faith, and music will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him.
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