Johnny Smithwick Sr.'s Obituary
Johnny Smithwick Sr., age 71, of Mableton, Georgia, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025.
Johnny was a devoted father, a proud grandfather—lovingly known as "Pawpaw” and a friend to many. He had a passion for working on cars and could often be found with a wrench in hand, fixing up engines. When he wasn’t under the hood, he found peace by the water, fishing and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Johnny was a hero to all stray dogs, lost cats, injured squirrels, and every other creature in need. No matter the time of day or the weather outside, Johnny could be seen pulling his car over on the side of the road to help an animal in distress, always headed straight for Cobb County Animal Services to ensure they received the care they needed.
Above all, Johnny was a family man. He cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren, and his love for them was evident in everything he did. His steady presence, warm heart, and wise words will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Western Milton, Sr., and Johnnie Mae Smithwick; sister, Diane Smithwick.
Johnny is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Karen Smithwick; son, Shannon and wife, Tami Smithwick; daughter, Angie and husband, Brian Heinlein; son, Johnny Smithwick, Jr.; daughter, Jennifer and husband, Jason Bryant; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Devin, Olivia, Chloe, Will, Addison, Bailey; brother, Western and wife, Rebecca Smithwick; brother, Gerald and wife, Pamela Smithwick.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Cobb County Animal Services in Johnny’s name at Cobb County Animal Services Donate
A Memorial Service will be held Friday, June 13, 2025 1:00 PM at Davis-Struempf Funeral Home Chapel with Western Smithwick officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation prior to the service Friday from 11:00AM-1:00PM.
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