Sidney Smith was born January 16, 1943 to the late Cora Mae (Simmons) and Oliver Smith, Sr. in Greenville, Alabama. He obtained his debonair, stylish fashion sense and love for jewelry and automobiles from his father. He got his stature and his cooking skills from his mother. Sidney accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age. After his family moved to Birmingham, Alabama he matriculated in Jefferson County Schools and graduated from A. H. Parker High School in 1961. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Army.

On February 13, 1967, he was united in holy matrimony to Ruby Nell. Sidney, his wife, and children lived abroad early in his military career. Sidney continued to serve both stateside and abroad, including combat in Vietnam, while his family homesteaded in Columbus, Georgia. After making Columbus, Georgia their home, Sidney and his family joined Canaan Baptist Church. He rose to the rank of Sergeant Major (E-9) during his 20 plus year military career as an Infantryman and Drill Sergeant. Sidney graduated with his bachelor’s degree from Troy University while stationed at Ft. Benning currently known as Ft. Moore.

After retiring from the United States Army, Sidney became a deacon at Canaan Baptist Church. He loved music and singing during Sunday School and church. Along with sharing his time, talents, and treasures (sometimes anonymously) with his church, Retired Sergeant Major Smith continued to serve his country and comrades-in-arms. He volunteered at Friends and Veterans on the Rise (F.A.V.O.R) and Vietnam Veterans of America (Chapter 1133), as well as many other organizations in his community.

He was actively retired and worked for Chattahoochee County School District, Muscogee County School District, H&R Block, AT&T Universal Card Services, and the Muscogee County Board of Elections for several years. He and his wife enjoyed hosting friends and family at their home and tailgating at the local football classics. They also enjoyed visiting people and traveling the world with family and friends who are more like family. Sidney was a caregiver for his wife and autistic grandson until his health declined.

He had a stroke while driving to pick up his wife in Birmingham, Alabama on Saturday, October 7, 2023. Sidney was convalescing in Alpharetta, Georgia after receiving rehabilitative services. He departed this life on Sunday, September 29, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cora and Oliver Smith, Sr.; brothers, John Smith and Oliver Smith, Jr.; sister, Earlean Chandler; and granddaughters, Iishe’ Videau and Jordan Hollingsworth..

He leaves to mourn his debonair style and kind spirit a loving wife, Ruby Nell Smith; a brother, Roderick Smith; three daughters, Veronica (Scott) Kennedy, Rosalind (Dexter) Toomer, and Dr. Cynthia A. Smith; four grandchildren, Brittney Lakey, Eskew Williams IV, Jonathan Kennedy, and Lance Works; four great grand-children, A’Lani Williams, Devin Lakey, Braelyn Lakey, and Elias Williams; and a host of in-laws, nephews, nieces, cousins, godchildren, friends, and community brothers, sisters, sons & daughters around the world.

The Homegoing Celebration for Mr. Sidney Smith will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024 at Canaan Baptist Church beginning at 11:00 AM with interment at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery.

Visitation will be Sunday 1 - 4:00 PM at Progressive.

Progressive Funeral Home staff is privileged to serve the Family of Mr. Sidney Smith.