Douglas William Smith, better known as Doug, 70, of Sparta, passed away July 22, 2023, at Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital, in Sparta.
Doug was born Oct. 23, 1952, in Rome, Georgia, to Ben Wesley and Betty Dean Bates Smith. He was a former Sears store owner and enjoyed quilting. In retirement, Doug enjoyed camping, traveling, and grilling on his back porch, while watching the Calfkiller River. But most of all, he loved being Grand Dee to his grandson.
Surviving family members include his daughter Erin Leap and husband Patrick, of Hermitage; grandson, Mason Leap; companion, Deborah Rhindress, of Sparta; and two brothers, Steve Smith and wife Betty, of McDonough, Georgia, and Greg Smith, of Rome, Georgia.
In honor of Doug’s wishes, Hunter Funeral Home has been entrusted with his cremation. No public celebrations are planned at this time.
Hunter Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements
