DEACON JONNIE SMITH

Jonnie Bernard Smith, affectionately known as “Paw Paw, Pops, JB, Jack, Uncle JB”, was the eighth child born to Elbert and Minnie Smith on December 28, 1931, in Gonzales, Texas.  His parents, three sisters, Thelma, Willie George, and Lilly B; four brothers, James, Fred, Robert, and Houston preceded him in death.  He was also preceded in death by his wife of fifty-five years, Yvonne Kelley Smith, son, Brandon Todd Smith, and grandson, Marvin Lee, Jr.

JB was a graduate of Phillis Wheatley High School Class of 1950.  He served in the United States Air Force and was a Korean War Veteran.  He was employed with the United States Postal Service for over 40 years.

JB married Yvonne Kelley on January 23, 1957, and relocated to Los Angeles, California.  To this union four children were born:  Felecia Yvette, Deborah Renee, Donald Keith, and Brandon Todd.

Being raised in a Christian family, JB professed his belief in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Greater Corinth Baptist Church.  After relocating to Los Angeles in 1957, he and his family joined Greater Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.  After relocating back to San Antonio in 1997, JB joined St. Joseph Missionary Baptist Church.  On July 27, 2008, JB united with New Covenant Missionary Baptist Church where he faithfully served as a Deacon and enjoyed the full privilege of his membership until his health no longer permitted him to attend.

JB transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday, July 4, 2023.  He leaves to cherish his loving memory:  daughters, Felecia Y. Smith; Deborah R. Smith Lee (Marvin); sons, Carlos B. and Donald K. Smith; sister, Mae Etta Adams; grandchildren, LaToya Smith-Sims (Terrell), Jada, Jaelyn, and Britni Lee, Niecy Bush, Tasha, Eb, Carlos Jr. , Sonya, Tijuana, Areyeh, Tiff, Dejuan, Malcolm, and Natalie; great grandchildren, Malik and Isaiah Sims, Emonie Wilson, and Justin Hamlin; special friend, Doris Miller; and a host of nieces,  nephews, relatives and friends.