In the small town of Savannah, Tennessee, the end of the year 2019 was marked by a sudden and tragic event that took the life of a beloved community member. Lawrence L. Smith, an 86-year-old Caucasian male, passed away on December 31, 2019. His death, which was initially presented in his obituary as a peaceful departure, was later reported to be the result of an accidental gunshot wound sustained outside of a local gun store.
Born on August 26, 1933, Lawrence was known for his friendly nature and his deep devotion to his faith. A graduate of Central High School in 1950, he served in the Army before embarking on a 28-year career with the United States Postal Service, from which he retired in 1990. Never one to be idle, he then became self-employed and continued to work until 2013. He also served as a pastor for over 20 years at two local churches, Living Word Church in Sardis and Christ Temple Assembly of God in Saltillo.
He was a man who found immense joy in his family and was often vocal in his praise for his wife of nearly 63 years, Berneice. He was a father to two sons, Robert L. Smith and Kevin L. Smith. His life was one filled with laughter, love for people, and a readiness to share a joke with friends and strangers alike.
The circumstances of his death were not the result of a criminal act, and as such, there were no arrests made or suspects sought in connection with the incident. His passing was deemed a tragic accident, leaving a void in the lives of his family and the community he served with a cheerful heart for so many years. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters and was survived by his wife, two sons, a brother, and a sister.
