Obituary of Melvin Smith

Melvin Smith, age 81, of Pitts Gap Mountain, Bledsoe County, was promoted to heaven May 8, 2021, after a battle with Alzheimer’s. He worked at Volunteer Army Ammunition Plant and owned and operated Smith’s Tree Farm. He was a faithful member of Pitts Gap Church of God where he was church clerk for 48 years, and taught Sunday School. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Emma Smith; and brother, Rev. Arthur Smith. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Shelba Johnson Smith; daughters, Mitsi Smith (Paul) and Lora McBride (Craig); grandson, Nick Smith (Amy); sister, Beulah Hudson (Bobby); brothers, Chester Smith (Brenda), Howard Smith, Jr. and Rev. Leroy Smith (Nancy); sisters-in-law, Jewell Smith, Notie Cunningham, Paulette Russell, Margaret Ladd (Charles) and Carol Ray (Marvin); numerous nephews and nieces and a slew of cousins. Pallbearers are Stacey, Austin and Andrew Smith, Bradley Hudson, Colton Blankenship and DJ Riggs. Graveside services will be held Thursday, May 13, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. CDT at Hickory Grove Cemetery on the corner of Pitts Gap Road and Hendon Road with Bishop Ricky Smith and Rev. Steve James officiating. Burial will be in Hickory Grove Cemetery. Online condolences can be made at reedfamilyfh.com. Arrangements are by Putnam-Reed Funeral Home, 1171 Main Street, Pikeville, TN. Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 12, 2021 from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. CDT. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Chattanooga ALS or Alzheimer’s Association.