Edward Smatt

Edward George Smatt (Eddie) of Pembroke Pines, Florida, died of heart failure on Thursday, April 28th, 2016. He was preceded in death by his father, Edmund, his mother, Gloria (Brimo) and his brother, Michael. He is survived by his sisters Rosemarie Fadil (Edward) and Joanne Azar (Phil), and his brother Anthony Smatt (Dawn). He was married to and survived by Camille Breaux Smatt and their four children: Lisa Smatt (engaged to Tom Dodgen), Krista Loonam (TJ); Jesse Smatt (Laura); and Justin Smatt (Elvira). Eddie was also survived by five grandchildren: Taylor Mosca, Reagan Mosca, Caitlyn Loonam; Nolan Loonam; and Callie Smatt.

Eddie Smatt was born in Port Antonio, Jamaica. He and his family came to the United States in 1978 from Kingston, Jamaica where he had established himself as an accomplished businessman and the number one tennis professional on the island. After initially opening a fresh fruit and vegetable business, he decided to return to his passion: tennis. He was the coach to some of the best tennis players in the world. Players like Sandon Stolle, Mary Jo Fernandez, and Andy Roddick were just a few of his pupils.

Eddie returned to Jamaica and opened up a dry goods business on St. James Street in Montego Bay. He ran the Big Bargain company for 13 years before returning to the United States for good. He joined with his son, Jesse, to open Smatt Tennis Academy at David Park in Hollywood. He continued to coach and mentor students through his final days.

Eddie Smatt was happiest sitting on his back porch, listening to music and smoking a good cigar. He was a vibrant, easy going man with an incredible sense of humor. He will be missed by a large number of friends, family, and many past students who believe they owe much of their success to his coaching. There are many stories and memories to share about Eddie as he impacted so many lives. Please share them all, as we all continue to pay tribute and celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in memory of Edward George Smatt.