Wesley Smith

Wesley Allen Smith, 88, of Eastpoint, Florida, passed away peacefully and entered the arms of Jesus on September 15, 2025. He was born on September 28, 1936, to the late James Smith and Monadia Page.

A lifelong hard worker, Wesley began his career at the young age of 11 on a shrimp boat. Over the years, he held many concurrent jobs, including at the St. Joe Paper Company, as a heavy equipment operator for Gulf County, and later oystering in the Apalachicola Bay. No matter the work, he poured himself into it with dedication, strength, and raw grit.

Wesley was married to the late Ruth Smith, with whom he shared 27 years of marriage until her passing. In later years, he married his loving wife, Mary Smith, with whom he shared the last 26 cherished years.

Wesley was a devoted man of faith and a proud member of Highland Park Church, where he served as a Deacon for over 20 years. He was never shy about sharing the love of Jesus Christ with those around him. He will be remembered as a kindhearted and generous man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

He is survived by his daughter, Shann Strops; his son, Jody Smith; his stepdaughter, Brenda Hand; and his stepson, Tony Foley. Wesley was blessed with numerous grandchildren: Crystal James, Tina Laughton, Joseph James, Allen James, Sherrie Walker, John Light, Stacy Barwick, Ronda Newell, Debra Richards, Francis Hand, Matt Hatfield and Holden Foley. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Thomas and Nathan Cooper, who adored him. He had two great-great-grandchildren: Courtlin and Jerika Cooper, whom he loved. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Ruth, his brother, four sisters, a stepdaughter, and a stepson.

A viewing will be held at Highland Park Church in Apalachicola on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 noon. The service will be officiated by Rev. Mitchell Lemieux and Rev. Jessica Gay. Burial will take place at Eastpoint Cemetery, with a reception and fellowship at Highland Park Church afterward.

Wesley Allen Smith leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and selflessness that will continue to live on through his family and all who knew him.

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“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.” – John 14:1