Thomas Ernest Smith II was born to Levert and Thomas Smith on January 19, 1955, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He departed this world to join his Heavenly Father on December 31, 2024.
A proud graduate of Brainerd High School’s Class of 1973, Thomas was a lively person, known for his sharp dressing, unique personality, and magnetic charm that made him the light of any room. His unwavering love for his children and deep commitment to his community were evident in all aspects of his life. Driven by a vision of growth and beauty for the city, he dedicated his time and energy to running for Mayor, with a mission to eliminate poverty in neighborhoods by investing in ideas and wisdom shared by those blessed by the Lord.
He ran a successful lawn care service with his brother, Mark "MJ" Smith, combining hard work and a strong sense of family. Thomas also had a long career as a supervisor at Erlanger and later at the Chattanooga Times Free Press, where he eventually retired. He lived life to the fullest, treating every day as a celebration—every day was his birthday.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Levert and Tom, and his brother, Mark.
He will be forever loved and his memory cherished by his children: Thomas (Tiffeny) Smith III, Arthur “Darnell” Smith, Francesca (Joshua) Simmons, and Hannah (Alexander) Carlson.
His grandchildren: Rachel Smith, Savannah Smith, Keylen Smith, Darnell Smith Jr., Raquel Smith, Tahlia Birt, Joshua Simmons, William Simmons, and Arthus Carlson.
His brother: Richard Lee Webb; sisters: Brenda (Joseph) Gibson and Velma Smith; nieces and nephews: Meliah & Stefon Smith, Christian Saxton, Shanae (Darius) Kirksey, and Demetrius Smith.
His best friend: Darrel Byrdsong.
May his legacy of love, commitment, and joy continue to inspire all who knew him.
The viewing will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 15, from 2-6 p.m. at John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, Tn. 37404.
A celebration of life will be held on Jan. 16, at 11 a.m. at Mount Canaan, 4801 Highway 58, Chattanooga, Tn. 37416. Following the service, interment will be held at 2 p.m. at Lakewood Memory Gardens East, 4621 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37411.