The journey of life for Johnnie Smith began in Leesburg, Georgia on February 26, 1946.  He was the beloved son of the late Freddie B. Smith and Annie Mae Carter Smith.

He received his formal education in the Lee County School System, including Lee County Training School.  While there, he was actively involved in various student organizations, activities, and events.

Early in life, Johnnie professed his faith and belief in Christ Jesus.   He was a faithful  servant of the Lord and unfaltering in his Christian stewardship at Wooden Grove Baptist Church while serving on the Usher Board for many years.  In later years, he united with the Greater Zion Hope Holiness Church and continued to avail himself in service as an usher. Through the years, he was steadfast in service and his encouraging words touched the lives of many people.

In 1998, Johnnie was united in holy matrimony to Gloria Holsey.  He was a loving husband and father who was extremely dedicated to his family and took great care in providing for their well-being.   Spending time with his family was paramount in his life and he took every chance possible to shower them with unconditional love.  Not only was he a great family man, he was an awesome friend and neighbor as well.    He had a heart of gold that opened freely to everyone that he encountered.  The strong bonds of friendship that he developed throughout his life will forever be cherished and remembered.

On Wednesday, October 26, 2022, Johnnie's earthly journey ended and he quietly transitioned to eternal rest and peace with the Lord.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by eight siblings, Mary Lois Hooks, Mammie Arnold, Ira Lee Carter, Catherine Thornton, Annie Lee Calvin, Freddie B. Smith, Edgar T. Jenkins, and Willie James Smith.

Precious memories will forever remain with his wife, Gloria Holsey Smith of Albany, GA; his children, Dedrick (Wanda) Baisden and Angela Holsey Smith both of Albany, GA; siblings, Judy Fair and James (Youvetta) Smith of Leesburg, GA, and Freddie (Linda) Smith and George (Corles) Smith of Albany, GA; sisters-in-law, Lois Faye Smith, Erma (Johnny) Reddick, and Ruby Smith; two granddaughters, Jala Baisden and Detrius Baisden; stepchildren, Wendy (Quinton) Thomas, Lorraine Jackson, Michael Holsey, Adrianne (Kently) Hall, Timothy Holsey, Rolletta Holsey, and Michael Harrison; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.