Earl Edward "Papa Earl" Smith

Earl Edward Smith, affectionately known as "Papa Earl", passed away peacefully at his residence in Canton, GA, on July 23, 2025 at the age of 96. He was born on March 23, 1929, in the community of Senoia, GA. Earl's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, hard work, and dedication to family: traits that defined his character.
For many years, Earl devoted his professional life to L & L Gas Company and Best LP, for which he was instrumental in the establishment of as one of their original employees. Beyond his professional endeavors, he was deeply rooted in Buffington Baptist Church and the Buffington community, a place he filled with his generous spirit and his love for both was evident in everything he did.
Earl was also an accomplished chicken farmer for 50 plus years, receiving many top grower awards, as well as a cattle farmer. His love for his land, his livestock and the work ethic that comes along with farming was evident in the strength of his character as well as the wisdom he imparted on others.
Beyond the farm, Earl had a passion for antique vehicles that he lovingly restored, bringing bits and pieces of history back to life with every bolt tightened. His sense of adventure never waned, evidence of which was the purchase of a trike at the spry age of 83. Whether he was tinkering with a car engine or sitting quietly in the shade after a long day's work, his heart was ever present and ever open.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Smith; parents, John and Annie Mae Smith; three brothers; six sisters; and son-in-law, Bill Threewitt.
Earl is survived by his children, Gerry Smith (Wanda), Jerry Smith (Brenda), Barbara Threewitt and Peggy Mullins (Tim); grandchildren, Shanahn Smith, Lance Threewitt, Jeremy Smith, Timothy Mullins (Jocelyn), Dylan Jobe Threewitt and Colby Mullins (Kerri); great-grandchildren, Erynn Smith and Ephraim Smith; special friend Evylon Hembree; as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services are scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at Buffington Baptist Church with Rev. Steven Sheffield officiating. The family will receive friends at Sosebee Funeral Home on Friday, July 25th from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and at Buffington Baptist Church one hour prior to the service from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. A private interment will be held at Macedonia Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Buffington Baptist Church.
Sosebee Funeral Home, Canton, GA is honored to serve the family of Earl Edward Smith. Sosebeefuneralhome.com 770-479-2131