Jack Bradford Smith

Jack Bradford Smith, 60, of Cordele, Georgia, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Jack was born on March 26, 1965, in Thomasville, Georgia, to the late Josephine Harrison Smith and Jack C. Smith Jr. He was educated in the Thomasville City Public School System, graduating from Thomasville High School in 1984. He later attended Thomas Tech, where he earned certification as an electrician.

At an early age, Jack accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized, beginning a lifelong journey rooted in faith, love, and service. His belief in God guided his actions, his compassion toward others, and the joy he brought into every room.

Although Jack chose not to pursue a career in the electrical field, he found his true calling with the United States Postal Service. Over the course of more than four decades, Jack faithfully served the Ashburn community as United States postal mail carrier, where his work was both his pride and joy. He made history as the first African American mail carrier in the city of Ashburn, Georgia, a milestone that filled him and his family with great pride.

Known for his outgoing personality, infectious laughter, and kind heart, Jack touched the lives of everyone who knew him. His generosity, warmth, and sense of humor made him a friend to all. Jack had a remarkable ability to bring people together, often being the one to light up a room with his smile and laughter.

A true sports enthusiast, Jack enjoyed lively debates about his favorite teams and never missed the opportunity to playfully remind others when his team came out on top. Outside of work, he loved fishing and traveling, finding peace and joy in the beauty of nature and the open road.

Jack was a devoted son, nephew, grandson, brother, uncle, godfather, and friend. His kindness was unmatched, and his love for family and community was unwavering.

He leaves to cherish his memory:Four brothers — Arthur James Smith of Thomasville, Georgia; Tonnie Smith; Guy Smith of Thomasville, Georgia; and Kenneth “Kenny” Smith (Sharon) of Georgetown, Texas; uncle and aunt, Johnny “Tic” Harrison and Donna Harrison of Atlanta, Georgia; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and friends.

A special cousin/best friend Renee Harrison who was more like a sister.

Jack also leaves behind his best friends, Tony Stephens and Mark “Chip” Parson, who shared in his laughter and adventures over the years. Although Jack never married or had children of his own, he was a proud and loving godfather to two godsons, whom he cherished deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents and maternal and paternal grandparents.

Jack’s life was one of faith, service, love, and joy—a life that left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him. Though he is gone from our sight, his legacy of kindness, laughter, and love will live on forever.

“His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”— Matthew 25:21 (KJV)

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”— 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)