Thomas Lee Smith, age 84, of Pell City, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on March 10, 2025. Born in Gadsden, Alabama, on March 2, 1941, Tommy lived a life defined by love for his family, hard work, and an enduring sense of pride. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, William and Evie Smith; his brothers, Donald Smith, Melvin Smith, and Frank Smith; his sisters, Renalda Loring, Norma (Shug) Parker, Margie Lyons, and Mary Francis (Frece) Owens;his eldest daughter, Cheryl Smith Flatt; and his ex-wife, Glenda Gail Jones Parker.
He is survived by his four children, Pam Keenum, Regina Ferrell, and Frank Smith, and step daughter Stacey Howell who were the pride of his life. He was also a devoted grandfather to seven grandchildren: Adam Keenum, Justin Keenum, Dakota Smith, Rachel Tindol Kelley, Russell Tindol, Riley Tindol, and Reagan Tindol. In addition, he leaves behind his ex-wife Joyce Morton, seven great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren who brought him immense joy.
Tommy was a loving father, a loyal friend, a cherished uncle, brother, and neighbor. He was a man who told you what he thought—whether you were ready to hear it or not. Yet, it was always said with more love behind it than you might have realized at the moment. When he spoke, you learned to listen, for his words carried wisdom and care. He was a man who didn’t ask for much but gave everything to those he loved.
Early in his life, Tommy worked at the steel plant in Alabama City before transitioning to a successful career in commercial and residential painting. His dedication and hard work were evident in everything he did. He also devoted about six years of his life to coaching PeeWee football in Hokes Bluff, leaving a lasting impression on the young athletes he mentored.
A lifelong sports fan, Tommy especially loved Alabama football and enjoyed playing golf with his siblings. In his younger years, he was a standout quarterback at Gadsden High School. They won the state championship his sophomore year and he never lost his passion for the game. A master of billiards, he also spent countless hours enjoying friendly competition with friends and family.
In his later years, Tommy found peace and joy at Logan Martin Lake, where he lived for more than 35 years. He considered the lake his home—a place where he could relax, reflect, and spend time with those he loved.
A memorial visitation for Tommy will be held Monday, March 17, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Collier-Butler Funeral Home, 824 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, AL 35901, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to join in remembering Tommy, sharing stories, and honoring his legacy. His final request was for his ashes to be spread at his eldest daughter Cheryl’s grave in Springfield, TN.
Tommy will be remembered for his quiet strength, deep love for his family, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will remain a guiding presence in the hearts of all who knew him. He came into this world on Dr. Seuss Day and is being bid farewell on St. Patrick’s Day—something we know would have made him smile.
And he made the world’s best Mexican cornbread.
