Joseph Earl Smith

SMITH, Joseph EarlA man of unparalleled creativity, extraordinary talent, deeply Southern charm, and abiding devotion to family and friends, died at home on Friday, March 30, 2012. Preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Smith Martin and Earl Carlyle Smith, and beloved son, Joseph Roe Crawford Smith. He is survived by his wife of nearly forty years, Claudette Crawford Smith and his daughter, Frances Smith Endres (Alex) of London, England; his grandchildren, Catherine Claudette Endres, Stuart Crawford Endres and Christopher Endres; his sister, Margaret Olivia Smith and sister-in-law, Patricia Hallman Crawford. He was born January 10, 1946 in Sheffield, AL. He graduated from Castle Heights Military Academy and then received a degree in floral design from Michigan State University. His floral career began in Nashville and spanned more than 50 years, with his most recent venture being Ilex for Flowers. He left an irreplaceable mark on this community through his inspired design at nearly every major charitable event, and at numerous significant Nashville music venues. His work was unmistakable, and his understanding and intuition regarding the future trends in the floral industry are considered visionary. He was recognized nationally and internationally as a designer of note. Countless people whose industries intersected with his, recognize him as their mentor and feel that their success is directly resultant from their association with him. He had the unique ability to relate to every person he met, and he excelled in knowing how to do things just right. He will be missed by all and forgotten by none. A Memorial service will be held Wednesday, April 4th at 3 p.m., at St. George's Episcopal Church, 4715 Harding Road. Visitation will be two hours prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to The Crawford Smith Scholarship Fund at Brentwood Academy, 219 Granny White Pike, Brentwood, TN 37027.