2024ObituariesC.E. Smith

Philippians 1:21, “For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

C.E. Smith, a man who lived for Christ and to make Him known, left this world at the age of 70 on December 15, 2024 and is now in heaven praising His Lord and Savior.  Born on February 12, 1954, and raised in Lake Arthur, Louisiana, where his father instilled in him a love for hunting and fishing, while his mother cultivated a deep love for music.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 50 years, Debbie Jouette Smith. Together, they grew closer to each other and to God, sharing a life filled with love, tears, and laughter. They were blessed with the privilege of raising three children: Faith (husband Christopher) Storck, Natasha (husband Christopher) Hall, and Timothy Shane Smith. His five grandchildren—Victoria Faith Hall, Lauren Elizabeth Storck, Olivia Grace Hall, Andrew Carson Hall, and Mia Joy Hall—were a constant source of joy, and he cherished his role as a grandfather. One of his greatest joys was knowing that each member of his family had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and is faithfully serving the Lord.

He is also survived by his loving sisters: Jo Stark, Lana Rhinehart, Donna (husband Matt) Hansen, Anne (husband Jack) Stewart, Rhetta (husband Mark) Clemons, and Tamea (husband Elliot) Hollier. He was further blessed with a sister-in-law, Carola (husband Danny) Landry, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is  preceded in death by his parents, Curtis Smith and Elaine Smith; his stepmother, Hazel Smith; his sister, Marynell Garrett; his brother, Frank Lilley; and his in-laws, Sally Thompson Jouette and Clete Jouette; brothers-in-law, Randall Jouette, Glynn Rhinehart, and Wilton Theriot; and sisters-in-law, Debra Jouette and Linda Lilley.

He also joins in heaven three children and five grandchildren, whom he never had the chance to meet until he was reunited with them in heaven.

C.E.’s life was rooted in his deep faith, and he often shared his life verse, Galatians 2:20: ” I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” This verse was the foundation of his daily life, reflecting his deep commitment to living out his faith. He dedicated himself to encouraging others to find Jesus, making sure they didn’t leave this world without Him. Throughout his life, he served others with love, humility, and grace. His legacy of unwavering faith and selfless service will continue to encourage all who had the privilege of knowing him.

C.E. lived his life with a heart dedicated to serving others. He was a true servant leader, always striving to model the values of humility, compassion, and selflessness to those around him. One of the most important lessons he taught his children was that you can never outgive God. He firmly believed that as we give and serve Him, God blesses us more abundantly in return.

C.E. found great joy in helping others, especially through Disaster Relief, Helping Hands and Men’s Ministries at Zoar Baptist Church. His commitment to these ministries was a reflection of his deep faith and desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. His legacy of service, generosity, and love for others will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Pallbearers will be Rick Kyle, Sam Pearce, Jeremy Davey, Jacob Porta, Geno Stewart, and Brad Gibbs.

Honorary Pallbearers will include Joey Brumfield, Steve Varnado, Danny Price, Chuck Wilson, Charles Prather, and Charles Watson.

These individuals, who were deeply cherished by C.E. will honor his memory and legacy by serving as pallbearers and honorary pallbearers during the service.

Services and viewing for C.E. will be held at Zoar Baptist Church on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Visitation will take place from 9:00-11:00 am, followed by a service at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest at Zoar Baptist Church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, C.E. requested that donations be made to the Helping Hands Ministry and the Disaster Relief Ministry at Zoar Baptist Church, two causes that were very close to his heart.

C.E. ‘s life is living proof of how your life can change if Jesus is at the center of it all. Many thanks to the people who poured into C.E.’s walk with the Lord throughout the years. Because of your investment in his life, and as he poured into others, his legacy will continue.

Out of respect to Mom’s severe asthma, we kindly ask that those coming to pay their respects please refrain from wearing perfumes or strong scents.