Johnny B. Smith

Johnny B. Smith Sr. was born March 24, 1946 to the union of the late John L. Smith and Everlena Smith in Glendora, Mississippi.

He joined the army in October, 1966 and served as a Sargent in the Vietnam War where he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, One Overseas Bar, the Bronze Star Medal with “V” Device, Marksman (Rifle M-16), Expert (M-60MG).

He was joined in holy matrimony with Yvonne Driver in August, 1987. To this union one child was born, Jessica Smith.

New Centennial was his home church until he joined King’s Temple Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor James E. Jackson Sr. in March, 2002.

Johnny spent most of his time in Sumner, Mississippi with his grandparents, Crosby and Mamie, who encouraged him that an education was essential.  He completed high school at WA Higgins High School and received his bachelor’s degree from Jackson State University.

Johnny enjoyed watching sports and traveling to support all the many children he encouraged to be the best that they could be.  He especially loved his wife’s cooking and he looked forward to bragging about Yvonne feeding his soul.  A true family man with the brightest smile, Johnny was a gentle giant with a loving and calm spirit.

Visitation will be Friday June 25, 2021 from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM at King Temple M.B. Church, 1402 Lyon Ave., Clarksdale, MS 38614.  The Celebration of Life will be Saturday June 26, 2021, 11:00 AM, at King Temple MB Church.  Burial will follow at Oakridge Cemetery.

He is preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers: Leroy Steal and Melvin Smith; 3 sisters: Catherine Lee, Josephine B. Smith-Gravely, and Anna R. Smith-Johnson.

He leaves to cherish his memories, 4 sons:  Elder Terrance Driver, Ravel Deon Williams, Johnny B. Smith Jr., and Jeremy Moss; 3 daughters: Jessica Smith, Yolanda Gregory (Patrick), and Jennifer Smith; 3 sisters: Margaret Lynch, Helen Shannon and Erma Dell Smith; 5 brothers: Gary L. Smith, Michael R. Smith, Willie Smith, John Wright-Smith, and Mark Anthony-Smith. A Special Granddaughter, April Walters that he raised, and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.