Funeral Homily for Greg Smith - The Rev. Colette Hammesfahr

 

We gather here today to honor and celebrate the life of Greg — a man who loved deeply, worked hard, and lived fully.

Our first reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us: “The souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.” Today, that is where Greg is — in the hands of God, free from pain, surrounded by peace and light.

Greg’s story began on Daufuskie Island, a place that shaped who he was. The salt air, the quiet marshes, and the long days shrimping instilled in him a love for nature, for honest work, and for simple joys. Those early experiences became the rhythm of his life — steady, patient, and grounded.

He brought that same steady spirit into everything he did. Greg loved his Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and his Atlanta Braves with unwavering loyalty. Sports were more than a pastime for him; they were a way of connecting — cheering and celebrating with friends and family

Greg and his beloved wife, Cheri, raised six children. Together they became experts at “divide and conquer.” One of them would be at the ball field on one side of town, the other across the county. They did it all so their children always knew their parents were there, cheering them on. That’s love — showing up, time after time, with pride and joy.

Greg’s parenting style was, as his kids might say, “old school.” He believed in structure, in manners, in hard work and respect. But underneath that firmness was deep affection. He wanted his children to grow into strong, good-hearted people — and they did, because they had him as their example.

He had a heart for more than just his own family, though. His home was affectionately known as the “Smith Orphanage.” The neighborhood kids knew they could stop by anytime — for food, advice, or just to be heard. Greg’s door was always open, his kitchen always welcoming, his ear always ready. He gave those kids something rare — a safe place, free of judgment, full of love. In his quiet way, he became a father to many.

Greg also loved music — especially Southern rock — and he loved to cook and entertain. He brought people together around his table with laughter, good food, and good songs. He made sure everyone who entered his home felt seen, valued, and part of something bigger.

Our reading from Revelation gives us comfort today: “God will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more.” Greg now knows that promise firsthand. He is no longer limited by illness, pain, or time. He is whole again — strong, joyful, and surrounded by the glory of God.

In our Gospel, Jesus says to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live.” That’s the foundation of our faith — that death is not the end, but a doorway into eternal life.

Greg’s body may have grown tired, but his spirit lives on — not only in heaven, but right here in every person who carries his love forward. In his children, who reflect his values. In the young people he mentored, who now offer the same compassion he once gave them. In every life he touched with kindness and strength.

And now, Greg stands in the presence of the One who created him — reunited with family and friends who went before him, surrounded by peace beyond our understanding. He has heard those words we all long to hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

So, as we say goodbye, let us hold fast to hope. Greg’s story is not over — it’s only changed chapters. He has gone to a place where there is no sorrow, only joy. And one day, we too will join him there — in that great reunion of love, where every tear will be wiped away and every heart made whole.

Until then, let us live as Greg did — with gratitude, strength, laughter, and an open door.

May the peace of Christ, the promise of resurrection, and the love Greg shared be with us all.

Amen.