Joshua Lee Smith

Joshua Lee Smith, age 50, of Adairsville, GA, passed away Thursday, September 11, 2025.

Joshua was a devoted husband, proud father, loyal son and brother, and steadfast friend. He left behind a legacy built on faith, honor, and unconditional love. 

Joshua was the rock of his family- a man who always put family first. His strength, calm presence, and steady guidance were constants in the lives of those who knew and loved him. 

He dedicated his life to education, compassion, and advocacy. He spent over 24 years as a special education teacher and system director of deaf and hearing impaired education for Rome City Schools, touching the lives of countless students and families with his patience, dedication, and unwavering belief in the potential of every child.

Joshua lived his life with integrity, courage, and pride. He stood firmly in his belief in God and on truth, never backing down from what was right, and always speaking with honesty and conviction. 

To his family he was everything- a protector, a provider, a leader, and a light. His absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but his memory will remain a guiding force in their lives.

Joshua was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dr. Charlie and Julaine Smith, and Willard and Glenda Earwood, and an uncle, Steve Earwood.

Joshua is survived by his wife, Dee Crawford Smith, whom he married December 4, 1999; two sons, Kaleb Smith and Kamden Smith; parents, Michael and Judy Smith; sister, Nikki (Griff) Atkins; father-in-law, and mother-in-law, Donald and Darlene Crawford; sister-in-law, Erin (Steve) Davenport; nephews, Bailey Atkins, and Grant Davenport; nieces, Emma Klaire Atkins, Anna Kate Atkins, and Shelby Rae Davenport.

Funeral services for Joshua will be held on Sunday afternoon, September 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in the Rockmart Presbyterian Church with Rev. Joe Brice officiating. Mr. Steve Davenport will deliver the eulogy. Interment will follow in Polk Memory Gardens.

Joshua will lie in state at the church on Sunday from 1:00 pm until the funeral hour.

Joshua’s family will receive friends at Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home Saturday evening, September 13, 2025, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m.

Pallbearers will include Bailey Atkins, Grant Davenport, Matthew Graham, Kennith Little, Jason Graham, Davie Anderson, Jason Baldwin, and C.J. Ware. Shelby Rae Davenport and Anna Kate Atkins will serve as an honorary pallbearer.

Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family of Joshua Lee Smith.