George William Smith, Jr.

George William Smith Jr., affectionately known as “Spud” to many, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2023 at the age of 79. Beloved husband of the late Cheryl P. Smith. Father of Melissa S. Mitchum (Jay Schultheis). “Pops” to Danielle N. Mitchum (Nick Saragusa). Brother of the late Cheryl S. Rodrigue and brother-in-law of Roland Rodrigue. Beloved brother-in-law of Kim Meyer Stafford (John). Son of the late George Smith Sr. and Alvera C. Smith. Also survived by his nieces, Dian R. Jones (Sam), Erika Meyer (Wade Bigler); nephew, Roland “Michael” Rodrigue and his best friend, Ted Badeaux whose friendship and kindness will always be remembered.

George was born in New Orleans and moved to Gretna as a teen. He graduated from West Jefferson High School, Class of 1962 and attended Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA and served his country in the Louisiana National Guard. He worked for RCA before taking a position as a lease analyst for Texaco in 1976. He retired in 2001 and took a full-time position as a doting grandfather to his beloved Danielle. He will be sadly missed.

George’s family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses and doctors of West Jefferson Medical Center-3rd Floor for their care and compassion.

Family and friends are invited to gather at St. Rosalie Catholic Church, 601 2nd Street in Harvey on Saturday, March 25, 2023 from 9am to 10am. A Memorial Mass will follow. Interment Westlawn Memorial Cemetery in Gretna.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association ( www.diabetes.org ) or the Alzheimer’s Association ( www.alz.org ).

Mothe Funeral Home is assisting the family during this difficult time. Family and friends are encouraged to share their condolences, stories and memories by visiting: www.mothefunerals.com .