Kelby Smith, age 83, passed away Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at Saint Francis Hospital, Tulsa, OK. He was born January 29, 1940, in Fulton, MS to Julian and Clytee Smith. He suffered with Parkinson’s for over 20 years.
He received degrees from Itawamba Junior College in Fulton, Harding University in Searcy, and Harding Graduate School of Religion in Memphis.
Kelby served as minister in Dewitt, AR; Shiloh Church of Christ, Florence; Florence Blvd. Church of Christ (24 years); North Jackson Church of Christ, Jackson, TN; & Associate
Minister at Jackson Heights, Florence.
He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Martha Smith. They were a great team, and he was grateful for her hard work that allowed them to stay so many years at five different
congregations. Together they conducted numerous workshops for Bible class teachers. He is also survived by his two children: Doug Smith (Jodie) of Booneville, MS and Kelly
Parrott (David) of Broken Arrow, OK. He loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren more than anything. He enjoyed attending various activities and sport events they were
involved in. He was blessed with seven grandkids: Holly Free (John David), Phillip Smith (Abby), Malorie Jackson (Hunter), Grant Parrott, Samantha Cook, Griffin Parrott (Alli), Sydney Cook. He also was proud of the four greats: Riley and Eli Free and Laney Kate and Tyson Smith.
Kelby conducted gospel meetings in many states and hundreds responded to the Lord’s invitation. He was well known for being bold but loving and a “book, chapter, and verse”
preacher. It was not unusual for him to use 100 or more verses in each sermon.
He was kindhearted and compassionate to everyone and wanted everyone to go to Heaven. He built quality relationships and was a loyal friend. He was known for his genuine smile. His family will miss him dearly and will forever cherish the time they had with him. More than anything they will miss his love and thoughtful advice.
Visitation is planned for Saturday, January 6 from 10:00 to 1:00 at Florence Boulevard Church of Christ. The funeral will follow at 1:00. The burial will be at Tri-cities Memorial Gardens. Greenview Funeral Home is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to: Bible Dept. Freed-Hardeman University!
