Russell Eugene Smith

Evans Funeral Home of Jefferson announces the death of  Russell Eugene Smith (Gene) of Jefferson, GA, who left this world in the comfort of his home and was reunited with the love of his life, Mary Alice Smith on May 11, 2025 at the age of 80.  He was a devoted father, grandfather and friend to many.   He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Alice Smith and sister, Marisue Avery.

He was born in Swainsboro, GA on July 31, 1944 to the late  Benjamin Howard Smith and Mary Eugenia (May Gene) Flanders Smith.  Gene grew up in Swainsboro, GA and moved to Athens early into his marriage.  He was in the heating and air business and taught at Athens Technical College.  He was actually still employed with Athens Tech and was currently in his 55^th year teaching.  Gene literally wrote the book on the HVAC business!   His textbook that he originally wrote in 1978 is now in currently in it’s 12th edition and is used by schools all over the country.    He was a beloved member of Union Baptist Church in Winder, GA where he co-taught an adult Sunday School class and served in various leadership roles.  He was a fierce prayer warrior and could be counted on if you ever requested prayers from him.  He loved his God, his family, his church and his profession.  Some of his other passions were Georgia Tech sports, NASCAR and watching old westerns, Wheel of Fortune and the Price is Right! 

He and his wife, Mary Alice were married for nearly 54 years before her passing.  During their marriage, they loved to travel and had been to several places around the world.  Together, they had 3 children, Russell Smith, JR. of Austin, Texas, Marti (Mark) Gibbs of Gainesville, GA and Ben (Sarah) Smith of Cleveland, GA. They also had 8 beautiful grandchildren, Deann, Cassandra, Kyle, Rylee Smith and Zack, Ethan, Taryn and Mia Gibbs.  There are several great-grandchildren and extended family as well.

The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 2:00 in the Union Baptist Church in Winder, Georgia. The Visitation will be on Thursday, May 15^th, 2025 from 12 :00 PM until 2:00 PM, in the Union Baptist Church, prior to the service.

A separate graveside service will be held on Friday, May 16^th at 11:00 at the Swainsboro City Cemetery in Swainsboro, Georgia.

Evans Funeral Home, Inc., 1350 Winder Highway, Jefferson, Georgia.  706-367-5467      

Online condolences at www.evansfuneralhomeinc.com