Funeral service will be held for Claude Bennett Smith Jr. at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Riverwood Family Funeral Service in Brookhaven, MS, with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m. at Riverwood. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Church of Christ Cemetery.

On Tuesday, March 7, 2023, Claude Bennett Smith, Jr., devoted husband and father, passed away at the age of 88. Claude was born on April 12, 1934, in the Midway community, Copiah County, MS to Claude and Maimo (Strait) Smith. He graduated from Loyd Star School in 1952 before attending Copiah Lincoln Jr. College. On October 8, 1954, he married Grace Elaine Montgomery. They raised two sons, Scott and Steve.

Claude enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends, and loved making people laugh. Claude was a gifted farmer and gardener, growing some of the best vegetables and fruit in Lincoln County. One of the many ways he showed love to others was by giving away the fruits of his labors. He was a faithful member of Hillcrest Church of Christ where his deep bass voice could be heard singing regularly.

Claude was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Elaine, his father, Claude Sr., and his mother, Maimo, his brother Kerry, and an infant son. He is survived by his brother John, two sons Scott (Renee) Smith of Clinton, MS and Steve (Jana) Smith of Edmond, OK; one grandson, Riley (Katie) Smith of Houston, TX; one granddaughter, Laura (Caleb) Baze of Waco, TX; two great-grandchildren, Cora and Alan Baze; special friends, Collins and Micah Allen.

The family would like to express sincere appreciation to Hospice Compassus and the staff at Kings Daughters Hospital.

Condolences and other information are available online at www.riverwoodfamily.com.