Earl Smith

VERNICE EARL SMITH, age 64 of Jemison, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025, at his home in Jemison, Alabama. He was born in Chilton County on September 30, 1961, the son of the late Vernice Levell Smith and the late Myrtle Leen Beam Smith.

Earl lived a life rooted in faith, hard work, and love for his community. For 30 years, he faithfully served the Chilton County Board of Education as a school bus driver for the Jemison Schools. To countless children, he wasn’t just the man behind the wheel—he was a friend, a protector, and often the first smile they saw each morning. His caring spirit and sense of humor made every route more than a job—it was his way of giving back to the next generation.

Beyond the school bus, Earl poured his heart into the land he loved. He owned and operated a farm supply store for many years and had a true passion for farming and raising cattle. He found great joy in teaching children about life on the farm, believing that every young person should understand “the old way of life.” His enthusiasm for sharing that wisdom made him a favorite among kids, who loved listening to his stories and lessons from the field.

Earl was known for his outgoing personality and his ability to make anyone feel welcome. He told it like it is—always honest, often humorous, and never afraid to speak his mind. Yet beneath that plainspoken nature was a heart full of kindness, loyalty, and generosity. He lived life with authenticity, a big heart, and a spirit that left an impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his brother, Steve Smith of Jemison; special friends, Paul Griffin and Hunter “Goober” Mizzell, both of Jemison; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and special friend, Randall Hayes.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. from the Chapel of Ellison Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. John Pullen officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Burial will follow in Mars Hill Baptist Cemetery in Jemison, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Earl’s memory to either Jemison High School FFA or Thorsby High School FFA, to help continue his passion for teaching the next generation about farming and the values of hard work, responsibility, and love for the land.

The family wishes to express sincere appreciation to Tonya Mizzell and family for the care they provided to Earl in the latter part of his life.

Final care and arrangements entrusted to the Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, AL.

www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com