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BORN
1938
DIED
2025
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Thomas Smith Obituary
Born: February 23, 1938 | Died: October 6, 2025
Thomas "Tommy" Judge Smith, age 87, of Dayton, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 6, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 23, 1938, in Crossville, Tennessee, to Abel Judge Smith and Frances Underwood Smith.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James "Jim" Smith; his daughter, Lisa Smith, and foster daughter, Kathy Meredith.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Phyllis Smith; son, Jeff (Bethany) Smith; grandchildren, Nicole (Dustin) Perkins and Brooke Smith; and great-grandchildren, Linley and Laney Perkins, and Henley and Harrison Smith.
He was a graduate of Rhea County High School, class of 1955, and received a bachelor's degree from Tennessee Wesleyan in 1961. Tommy retired from Robinson Manufacturing Company after 35 years of employment where he served as credit manager.
Tommy lost his father at age five and had a tough family life, so it came as no surprise that his love and support for his family was unmatched. His greatest pleasure was seeing the successes and happiness of his children and grandchildren, and knowing that they did not have to struggle as he had. He was an avid hunter his entire life and enjoyed many years hunting with his close friend Jack Robinson and others. He also spent many years with his son racing late model dirt cars around the east Tennessee area where they won many races and multiple track championships. Tommy was known for his long road trips where the drive itself was his vacation.
The family received friends on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Coulter Garrison Funeral Home. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025, in the chapel of Coulter-Garrison Funeral Home, with Steve Brown and Dustin Perkins officiating. Interment followed the service at Rhea Memorial Gardens.
Coulter Garrison Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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Funeral services provided by:
Coulter-Garrison Funeral Home, Inc.1670 Market Street, Dayton, TN 37321
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