Maynard B. Smith was joyfully welcomed into his heavenly home on September 14, 2025, at the age of 86. There is no doubt the angel choir was singing his favorite song, “Welcome Home” as he made his way into the loving arms of Jesus.
He was born on December 30, 1938, to Maudie and Joe Smith Sr. and was blessed with 16 brothers and sisters.
He leaves to cherish his memory two sons and two beloved daughters-in-law whom he thought of as his own daughters: Randolph (Teresa) Smith and Les (Carol) Smith. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Amanda Bruner, Jennifer Cerveny, Adrienne Sizemore, Whitney Smith, Jared Smith, James Napier, and Elisha Turner; as well as great-grandchildren: Jacob Massey, Arthur Cerveny, Taylor Napier, Kyla Smith, Krew Smith, Rhett Sizemore, Aria Smith, Elaina Smith, Alexandria Cerveny, Jon Cerveny, Rebecca Workman, Aaron Bruner, Matthew Bruner, Brianna Owens, and Desiray Owens.
A long-time family friend, Charlene Murphy, lovingly helped care for him until his heavenly homecoming.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Betty Jean Smith, the love of his life.
Maynard loved the Lord and his church. He gave his heart to Christ in 1992 after much persistence from his grandchildren, who encouraged him to attend church with them. He and his wife were baptized together and faithfully served and praised God until their final days.
Music was one of his greatest joys. He loved playing his banjo and guitar at churches and nursing homes, always singing about the goodness of God. Known for his humor, Maynard was a jokester who loved making people laugh. Above all, he cherished his family and was especially proud of his two sons, whom he loved more than anything on this earth.
Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 18th at Britton Funeral Home, with Anthony Hinkle officiating. Burial will follow at the Smith Cemetery on Ashers Fork.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Thursday, September 18th at Britton Funeral Home.
