Lionel McGowan Smith

Lionel McGowan Smith “Bun,” age 88, of Jacksonville, FL (formerly of Colón, Panama), passed away after a full and remarkable life. He was a devoted husband, celebrating 50 years of marriage with his late wife, Yvonne Mercedes Hunter Smith, and was most proud of his family and his many accomplishments.

A self-made businessman, Lionel was an entrepreneur, mortgage banker, financial consultant, loan modification specialist, and minister of the gospel. Known for his charisma and generosity, he was also a salesman, counselor, interior designer, artist, and friend to many. He never met a stranger and was always willing to help others.

Lionel was preceded in death by his wife, Yvonne; his parents, Edward Smith and Elvina Williams Smith; his brother, Arthur, and his grandchildren, Rossano Jr., Mercedes, and Jon-Tae. He is survived by his children Melanie Jatta, Yvette Smith, Rossano Smith (Michelle), Mauricio Smith (Nicole), and Angelo Smith (Edilma); his siblings Alicia, Eddy, Enrique, Winston, and Cecilio; grandchildren Jovan (Candis), Mauricio (Alyson), Dante, Victoria, Michelah, Jada, Julian, and Mal’Aki; and great-grandchildren Blake, Bryson, Brook, Braydon, Kamaya, Kayden, Jah’dae, Jayde, Kalani, Blair, and Shia Lee.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 11th (time and location to be determined). Donations may be made to a charity of choice in his memory.

His children describe him as charming, generous, deeply spiritual, and passionate about serving others. A handwritten note he left behind reflects his outlook: “Life is a circle of happiness, sadness, hard times, and good times. If you are going through hard times, have faith that the good times are on the way.”

Lionel will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather, a provider, and a man of faith whose legacy of love and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.