Gregory Jerome Smith

Gregory Jerome Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and faithful servant of the Lord, transitioned peacefully from this life on July 26, 2025. Born on February 18, 1950, Gregory was the fourth of six children born to the late Richard C. Smith and Lady Mary Frances (Baxter) Stacks.

Raised in a home rooted in faith, Gregory developed a deep and enduring relationship with God from an early age. His commitment to keeping the Sabbath and honoring the teachings instilled by his mother remained steadfast throughout his life. He began his spiritual journey at the House of God under Bishop Daniel Campbell Sr. and went on to become the first ordained deacon at the House of God under the leadership of the late Bishop R. A. Campbell on August 21, 1988—a distinction he carried with humility and pride.

He attended the Cincinnati Public School system, where he earned his GED. He retired from Procter & Gamble in 1998, where he worked with dedication and excellence. After retiring, Gregory worked alongside his wife at S.H.I.P.S. Daycare, where he built a special bond with the children, who affectionately called him “Mr. Greg.” He was a calming, joyful presence in their lives and brought the same warmth and care to the daycare that he brought to every aspect of his life.

In 1999, Gregory received a life-changing gift: he received a life-saving kidney from his brother, Richard “Maurice” Smith. This extraordinary act of love extended Gregory’s life and filled him with immense gratitude. The kidney lasted 24 years, a true miracle that astonished his doctors and reminded everyone of God's grace and the power of family.

Gregory was known for his impeccable style—rarely seen without a well-coordinated outfit and polished shoes. You just knew he loved shopping, and he never tired of it. Whether at church or at a family gathering, he was almost always the best-dressed man in the room.

In 1995, Gregory married Mildred (Sherrill) Smith. Together, they embraced one another with warmth, joy, and a bond that only deepened over the years. They adored one another wholeheartedly and walked hand-in-hand in love and faith until the very end.

Gregory also had a deep appreciation for fine dining and gourmet meals. If he ate it, you could be sure it was delicious! He enjoyed good food, great conversation, and being surrounded by the people he loved. A true Cincinnati native, he was a loyal fan of his hometown sports teams—the Bengals and the Cincinnati Reds—cheering them on passionately whether they won or lost.

Though Gregory faced many health challenges in his later years, he remained hopeful and strong in spirit. He never let his ailments define him, keeping a positive outlook and unshakable faith. He fought a good fight—courageously, faithfully—and now he is released from pain, resting in peace with the Lord he so deeply loved.

Gregory was a loving father to his six children with his first wife Lucy (Allen) Smith: Rachel Smith, Dana Perry, Gabriel Smith, Ester Smith, and Joshua Smith. He is preceded in death by his son, Gregory “Simeon” Smith Jr., whose memory he held close to his heart. He was also a devoted "Paw Paw" to Deaca R. Weems, Duane B. Weems Jr., DaShawn S. Weems, Micah D. Weems, Johnneice Marcie Bennett, Karmen S.T. Bennett, and John “Jay Jay” W. Bennett Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren: Dominic, Duane III, Jessica (affectionately known as Jay Jahori), Joshua, Alasija, Ethan, Samuel, Gabriella, and Micah Jr.; His God Children, Bishop Gersham Morrison, Semiah Joash, Tyler Richardson, Simeon Joash, Jala Dodson, and Joe Dodson. He poured love, faith, and wisdom into their lives, and they carry his spiritual legacy forward.

Gregory is also survived by his loving siblings: Richard (Debbie) Smith, Ailleen Anderson, Orlando Smith, Eudora (Reginald) Burton, Donetta Partridge, Thelonious Nixson, Qquendo (Stephanie) Nixson, Karvinii (Je ) Nixson-Ison, Kovetta (Rodriguez) Campbell-Black, and Darren Nixson. He is also remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and dear friends.

He is now asleep alongside his beloved parents and siblings—Barbara Ann (Marvin) Mathews, Robert Lee Smith, and Velda Nixson—awaiting the sound of the trumpet and the Lord’s call to rise together in glory.

Gregory’s life was one of style, service, strength, and unwavering faith. His presence, warmth, and sharp wit will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

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