Joel Ruel Smith

Joel Ruel Smith, 81, passed away Friday, August 26, 2016 in Jacksonville FL. He was born In December of 1934 in LaGrange, GA, and lived his whole life in Florida. He owned Paint Craft Store, a local business in Jacksonville FL that he ran along with his son Joel Jr. for over 50 years. He was a longtime member of Murray Hill United Methodist Church, raising his family in the church and was devout in his faith and love of God. Joel was also an avid hunter and fisherman, and would always take his dog out on the lake with him to help him with his catch of the day. He was also a great fan of the Florida Gators football team and never missed a game. Joel was predeceased by his loving wife, Beverly Louise Smith, his daughter, Beverly Jo Smith, and his brother, Calvin Richard.

Joel is survived by his son, Joel Smith Jr., his grandchildren, Bradley Smith (Tiffany) and Amanda Smith, and his brothers, Ken Peters (Shirley) and Don Peters. He also leaves to cherish his memory his nephew, Emory Prevatt, his sister-in-law, Helen Richard, and his longtime friend, Jim Buehene.

Joel was and always will be well loved by his family and friends, and will be missed dearly. He was athletic, intelligent, compassionate, and strong. To his family, Joel was a king. Through his actions and words, he taught his family the importance of love and dedication. He was a very strong willed man, and yet he was not so prideful that he would not ask for help when he needed it. His granddaughter, Amanda, was dedicated to him these last few years, and was always by his side, reflecting his lessons of love and dedication in her care for him. Joel is now in the Kingdom of Heaven, and his memory will keep him alive in our hearts until we meet again.

A visitation for Joel Smith will be held from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, Thursday, September 1, 2016 at Hardage-Giddens Edgewood Funeral Home, 729 Edgewood Ave. South, Jacksonville FL 32205. The funeral service for Joel Smith will be held at 11:00am, Friday, September 2, 2016 at Hardage-Giddens Edgewood Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Riverside Memorial Park, 7242 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville FL, 32205.