Mr Kenny Lafayette Smith

December 25, 1943 - November 14, 2018

Edinburg-- Kenny Lafayette Smith Sr., 74, entered the heavenly gates Wednesday morning, November 14, 2018. Born in Leake County on December 25, 1943, he was a son of the late L.W. and Billie Smith. Kenny graduated from Edinburg High School with the Class of 1962. He then attended East Central Community College before graduating from Delta State. He married the love of his life, Merry Joyce Burkes Smith, in 1965, and together they were blessed with two sons. Kenny worked with Central Electric Power Association for 43 years before retiring as District Manager in the Rankin County office. He was a longtime member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church while living in Rankin County, and a faithful member of Mars Hill Baptist Church in Edinburg. Kenny was grounded in his faith and love for Jesus Christ, and that faith guided him and his family throughout his life. Kenny was an avid sportsman. He loved to hunt and fish with friends and family. He was a passionate Mississippi State Bulldog Fan, and rarely missed a game, whether it be on TV, radio, or in person. He enjoyed taking his boys to the games to cheer on the Dawgs. Kenny was a member of the Square County Jaycees and served as a Shriner. Additionally, he served with the Rankin County Sheriff's Department as an Auxiliary Deputy, as well as a volunteer fireman for the Lake Harbor Fire Department. He was a coach for numerous little league baseball teams. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a dear friend to many. He treasured his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, and adored spending time with his family. He cherished his friendships that were cultivated through memories made over many years. Kenny leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and friendship that will not be forgotten. His family mourns, but takes comfort in the fact that he is now at peace in Heaven. Kenny is survived by his loving wife, Merry Joyce Smith, of Edinburg; sons, Kenny Lafayette Smith Jr. (Glenda), Amory, Chad Smith (Debra), Pelahatchie; grandchildren, Brittany Morgan Smith Eakes (Chris), Josh Smith, Laura Ellen Scarberry, Chad Raney Smith; brother, Joe Smith (Fawn), Madison; and a host of nieces and nephews that he dearly loved. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, November 16, 2018 at Mars Hill Baptist Church in Carthage. Bro. Eddie Pilgrim will lead the service. Burial will follow at Mars Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will include Riley Sanders, Mike Tucker, Mike Stewart, Jerry Parker, Steve Bryan, and Greg Barrett. David Dowell will serve as an honorary pallbearer. Visitation will be from 5-8 P.M. Thursday at Wilcox Funeral Home.