Joseph Hugh Smith, 73, of Braxton, MS, passed peacefully with family by his side on February 3, 2025.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Mendenhall. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, February 06, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Clearview Cemetery in Mendenhall, MS. Bro. Danny Dickerson will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Mendenhall is in charge of arrangements. 601-847-4401

He was born July 11, 1951. After graduating from Wingfield High School in 1970, he joined the National Guard. He had and enjoyed a long, successful career working with heavy equipment. He possessed the family trait of quick wit, loved collecting classic cars, rescued stray animals, and had a kind heart toward those in need.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hugh Smith; mother, Marjorie Jaap; sister Catherine Smith Lutz; and brother, Tony Smith.

He is survived by his significant other Donna Usry, children, Jason Smith (Jessica) of Gainesville, FL and Renee Smith Ware (Matthew) of Hattiesburg, MS; four grandchildren, Connor and Jack Ware and Jase and Jett Smith, brother, William Louis Smith and sister, Jennifer Joanne Jaap.

Pallbearers will be Louie Smith, Jason Smith, David Arendale, David Sullivan, Jarod Chancelor, and Vernon Conerly.

Many thanks to Bedford Nursing Home in Mendenhall and Gentiva Hospice for their excellent care.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapelmageemendenhall.com