Edward Smith

1950 - 2025

Edward Smith

January 31, 1950 - September 27, 2025

Lexington, Kentucky - Edward Jay Smith, 75, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away on September 27, 2025.

Born January 31, 1950, in Houston, Texas, to the late Lillian (Stamell) and Morris Smith, Ed grew up in Houston before attending the University of Texas and earning a Master's in Health Administration from Tulane University.

He built a distinguished career in New Orleans as Executive Director of major healthcare facilities, while also serving on numerous boards, driven by contributing to public health initiatives and sharing the teachings of his Jewish culture. His many honors included Life Fellow of the American College of Health Executives, Man of the Year from the Jewish Federation of New Orleans, the Mayor Marc H. Morial Award, and the Golden Hammer Award.

While living in New Orleans, Ed met the love of his life, the late Betty Straus Smith. Ed and Betty shared a bond few are lucky enough to experience. They spent their 25 years together, enjoying travel, art, family, friends, and community. Through Betty, Ed embraced an instant family, taking great pride in stepchildren, Cindy and Michael, their achievements, and later, their families.

Recently, Ed and Betty moved to Atlanta to be closer to family and especially their granddaughter, Blake.

He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Berne, and his wife Betty. He is survived by his stepdaughter Cindy Stein (Ryan), stepson Michael Kern (Abbi Hoiles), grandchildren Blake Stein and Emmett Gee, and niece Quita Rodriguez (Smith).

Ed will be laid to rest in Lexington Cemetery, in Lexington, Kentucky at 1:30pm Mon. Oct. 6, 2025. Memorial contributions may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life, the XLH Network, or a charity of your choice. www.milwardfuneral.com