Edward Russell Smith

Funeral Services are scheduled for 3:00pm Sunday September 25 in the Ward's Funeral Home Chapel for Mr. Edward "Eddie" Russell Smith age 84 of Gainesville. Chris Ellis will speak. The family will receive friends from 10:00a.m. to 8:00p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Mr. Smith passed away Thursday September 22, 2011 at New Horizons West Nursing Home.

Mr. Smith was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Daniel Smith and Bertha McWaters Smith. He had lived in Hall County since 1970 and worked at Gainesville Jewelry for 22 years. He wrestled under the name Long Tall Eddie Smith and also refereed wrestling matches. He also starred in the movie Greased Lightning with Richard Pryor.

Survivors include Wife Frances Sherry Bowles, Gainesville, Son and Daughter-in-law, Mike and Gwen Smith, McDonough, GA, Daughter Kathy Lovins, Peachtree City, Karen Allen, Peachtree City, Daughter and Son-in-law, Donna and Dennis Smith, Palmetto, GA, Step-Sons, Anthony Bowles, Cleveland, Antonio Keith Bowles, Gainesville, Alberto Rodney Bowles, Gainesville, 14 Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren, and 15 Step Grandchildren and Step Great Grandchildren.
Online condolences may be made online at wardsfh.com. Ward's Funeral Home 758 Main Street S.W. Gainesville in charge of arrangements.