Michael Eugene “Gene” Smith, 83, of Hampton, Tenn., went to his heavenly home on Thursday, July 25, 2019, after a brief illness. He was born in Cardens Bluff to the late Clarence Condred and Mary Campbell Smith.
Gene was employed by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, Engineering Division, for over 31 years, where he was known as “Rigger.” After his retirement from TDOT, he continued in construction another five years, working for Summers-Taylor.
Gene was a member of Rittertown Baptist Church where over the years he served as deacon, church treasurer, trustee, Sunday School Director, and sang in the choir. He also served on the house and grounds committee as well as church custodian. He loved to serve others whether giving of food from his garden, handy man repairs, or mowing someone’s lawn. Hobbies included deer hunting, fishing, and restoring antique furniture. He too, delivered meals to the shut-ins in the Hampton area for Meals on Wheels.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Tafada Payne and Dorthy Ramsey; a brother, Gordon Jay Smith; a nephew, Gordon Smith; and a niece, Dani Payne Colbaugh.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Shirley (Teague); three sons, Michael and wife Robin (Honeycutt) of Hampton, Jeffrey and wife Jill (Halcomb) of Somerset, Ky., and Joseph and wife Angel (Wright) of Batesburg, S.C.; three grandchildren, Caleb and wife Domonique (Goodwin) of Johnson City, and Isaac and Faith of Batesburg; and one great-grandson, Lincoln of Johnson City.
Visitation will be held at Rittertown Baptist Church on Monday, July 29, at noon, followed by funeral services at 2 p.m. with Pastor Richard Stout and Bro. Dean Smith officiating. Special music will be provided by Mary Roberts and Tom Little. Interment will be in the church cemetery following the service. Active pallbearers are Caleb Smith, Isaac Smith, Seth Ramsey, Mark Payne, Craig Odom, Travis Potter, Gary Smith and Jack Smith. Honorary pallbearers are his church family, his co-workers of TDOT, and the men of the community. The family would like to send a special thank you to the staff of the 2200 Floor of Johnson City Medical Center, the staff at Quillen Rehab Hospital, and The Waters of Roan Highlands for their care of and service to Gene and the family, and his church office buddy, Patty. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gideons International. Condolences may be sent to the family at our website at www.memorialfcelizabethton.com.
Memorial Funeral Chapel is serving the Smith family.