Everett Smith Obituary

June 7, 1948 – December 28, 2023

KINGSPORT - Everett Larry Smith, 75, of Kingsport and Blountville, died on December 28, 2023 after a courageous struggle with cancer. Larry, or "Smitty," was born June 7, 1948 in Sweetwater, TN, and moved to Blountville, TN as a toddler. He graduated from Blountville High School, Class of 1966, with his lifelong friends. He attended Ohio State and UT, and graduated, to then have a long career with Roadway Express, where he retired.

Larry had a passion for family, friends, music, and writing. His singing was loved by many local fans, and he treasured that connection. He also recorded CDs and published his writing. He was a proud and grateful member of The Lost State Writer's Guild for many years.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents Fred and Beulah Smith.

Treasuring his memory are his two daughters, whom he loved very much. Nicole Calhoun, and Kristin Hilton, and also son Travis Gardner, His sister, Gail Smith Hughes, and two brothers, Dennis and Brian Smith, were beloved by him. He also leaves behind his adored four grandchildren, Jaiden Calhoun, Jamison Calhoun, Raylynn Calhoun, and Bentley Hilton, as well as several nieces and nephews, and many close friends. One of those, also a mentor to him, is Jim Collier, of Abingdon, VA, whose spirit and presence remained dedicated until Larry's passing. Amanda Naylor, his fiancee, and hospice caregiver, is deeply saddened at her loss. "Smitty lit up the room when he walked in," it was said, and was true. He embraced his life, which he saw as a gift.

A celebration of life service is planned for Saturday, January 20, at Shades of Grace Church, 313 Sullivan Street, Kingsport, TN at 1:00 PM.