Joel Randall Smith Jr., 81, of Earleton, passed away with loved ones by his side Sunday, September 4, 2022, at Haven Hospice in Gainesville. He was born in Jacksonville November 19, 1940. He served in the United States Navy for 8 years. During his service, he trained in Aviation Electronics and Radar Technology. He was stationed in Norfolk, VA, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, as well as Newfoundland and Canada. Petty Officer Second Class Smith was awarded the National Defense Service medal and the Good Conduct medal before being honorably discharged on December 5, 1966. He continued working with electronic and computers while employed at IBM and the School Board of Alachua County until his final retirement at the age of 65. He enjoyed football, especially the Gators, fishing, the latest electronics or computer, building or fixing things, and science fiction. He liked listening to old country favorites like Vince Gill and Johnny Horton. He got the most joy from holding one of his grandbabies, who affectionately called him Pop. He is survived by his wife of twenty-four years, Ellen J. Smith; a brother Jim Smith; children Guy Smith, Josh Smith, Holly McIntyre; stepchildren Cristina Gagnon, Tara Tyson, Kimberly Anderson; a cousin Jackie Dicks and 9 grandchildren Ben, Dean, Heather, Meredith, Miranda, Caleb, Dillan, Brandon, and Brittany. Those we love can never be more than a thought away... For as long as there is a memory, they live in our hearts to stay...A memorial service will be held at the graveside, Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 12 Noon with Pastor Clay Robinson officiating. A time of fellowship will follow the graveside service at 1:00 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Trinity Baptist Church. Interment will be at the Keystone Heights Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts can made to Florida Baptist Children's Homes, P.O. Box 8190, Lakeland, FL 33802.Arrangements are by JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656. (352)473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com Cemetery Keystone Heights Cemetery State Road 100 West Keystone Heights FL 32656 US A time of fellowship Tuesday, September 13, 2022 1:00 PM - Trinity Baptist Church 3716 SE State Road 21 Keystone Heights FL 32656 US Funeral Home Jones - Gallagher Funeral Home - Keystone Heights 340 East Walker Drive Keystone Heights FL - 32656 US (352) 473-3176