Ernest Alvin Smith Jr.

In Loving Memory of Ernest Alvin Smith Jr.
It's with heavy hearts and deep love that we honor the life and legacy of Ernest Alvin Smith Jr., who passed away on April 17, 2025.
Ernest, affectionately known as "Ernie," was born and raised in Hobe Sound, Florida, and educated in the Martin County School District. From a young age, Ernie stood out with his big personality, strong voice, and unforgettable presence.
He was the beloved son of the late Ernest Alvin Smith Sr. and Grace Guthrie Smith. Ernie was genuine and unapologetically himself. He spoke his mind and carried himself with a presence that was uniquely his own.
Ernest was married to Lane' Jackson Smith, a devoted wife whose love for "Ernie" was constant and true. Lane' supported him with quiet strength and care, always there with love and unwavering devotion.
Ernie will be remembered most for his gift of cooking on the grill, his laughter, and his joyful sense of humor that always filled the room. He was the heart behind "Just Bones Left BBQ," a business born from his passion for grilling and feeding people. More than just a chef, Ernie created experiences-bringing people together through laughter, storytelling, and plates full of flavor. Once the grill was lit, the people came. His food brought people together, and his spirit kept them coming back.
Though he was a man of many layers, Ernie loved his family deeply. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who left an imprint on everyone who knew him.
Ernest was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Alvin Smith Sr.; mother, Grace Guthrie Smith; brother, Dwight Burton; and sister, Ernestine Fowler.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Lane' Jackson Smith; sons, Dejuan Sparks (Kimie) and Ernest Smith III; daughters, Mariyah Smith and Mia Smith; bonus daughter, Brooke Hall; grandchildren, Demi Sparks, Demarcus Sparks, Dhylan Sparks, Dylan Sparks, and Jayce Sparks; siblings, Angelia Smith-McCaskill (Scott), Casonia Smith-King (Jeffery), Crystal Smith-Dames, Gail Horner, and Germaine Moore; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, customers, and friends who loved him deeply.
Although our hearts are filled with sorrow, we take comfort in knowing that Ernie's life was a blessing. We are thankful for the time we had with him, and his memory will live on through the love he shared, the laughter he brought, and the many lives he touched. His legacy will remain in our hearts forever.
Final Arrangements have been Entrusted to the care of Thorne's Mortuary Inc. Stuart, FL.