Mr. Earl Smith, age 81, Jonesborough, passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026, at his residence after a brief illness.

Mr. Smith was born on July 27, 1944, in Unicoi County, Tennessee to the late Joseph & Janie Nelson Smith. He was also preceded in death by a son, Robert Earl Smith, a daughter, Nancy Lynn Smith, infant brother, Buddy and a sister, Gladys.

He was of the Christian faith.

Earl, who through the years raised tobacco and hogs, was a self-made businessman. He owned Smitty’s Tile, where he worked in 49 of 50 states. He was an amazing husband and father who was always willing to help others in need.

Survivors include his wife, Thea Smith (owner of Weem’s Florist), Jonesborough; daughter, Aimee Smith, Jonesborough; grandchildren, Kendell Broyles, Alyssa Brown, Justin Reid, Gracie Ledford, Robert Smith, Jr. and Phillip Smith; great-grandchildren, Avery, Nova, Embrie and Ozias; a brother, Alf Smith (Pansy); and several nephews and nieces.

Earl requested no services be conducted. The family request that if you have a story you would like to share about Earl, please do so by mail, The Smith Family, P.O. Box 98, Jonesborough, TN 37659, or on our webpage, www.dillow-taylor.com