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William ‘Edsol’ Smith
April 25, 2025
William “Edsol” Smith
December 12, 1927 – April 24, 2025
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
Obituary
William “Edsol” Smith, 97, of Century, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Born December 12, 1927, in Enterprise, Alabama, to John Loyd and Doris Lucille Smith, he was raised in Jay, Florida, and later became a proud and active member of the Century community.
Edsol was preceded in death by his first wife, Burtell Smith; his second wife, Josie Smith; his parents, John Loyd and McDaniel Smith; and his brothers, Harold and Clarence Smith.
He is survived by his siblings: Felton Smith, Max Ray Smith, Jimmy Smith, and Eunice Golden;
His daughter: Deborah (Garry) Dantzler of McDavid;
His grandchildren: Chris (Jerry) Croley of Molino, Bryan (April) Croley of Milton, Amy Croley of McDavid, and Stephanie (Matt) Gilmore of McDavid;
His great-grandchildren: Valorie Croley, Alexa Castro, Tyler Gilmore, Will Gilmore, Miles Croley, Parker Gilmore, Greta Croley, and Preston Croley.
A graduate of Jay High School, University of Florida and Mississippi College, Edsol carried a lifelong passion for learning—and for his beloved Florida Gators.
He devoted his life to education, serving as a visiting teacher, classroom teacher, coach, and principal. Generations of Century Blackcats were shaped by his mentorship, guidance, and leadership.
His service extended beyond the classroom. Edsol was a dedicated deacon of First Baptist Church of Century, a proud member of the Century Lion’s Club, Masonic Lodge, and Kappa Delta Pi. He gave generously to causes focused on youth wellness, missionary work, and supporting those in need.
In addition to his educational and spiritual service, Edsol was also the owner of Century Bail Bonds, which he ran with integrity and care until 2006.
Above all, Edsol was a man of great love—for his family, his community, and his Lord. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and most deeply in the hearts of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he adored and inspired.
In his later years, Edsol was lovingly cared for by his daughter, Deborah. Their bond was one of deep devotion, built on years of mutual support, respect, and love. As Deborah cared for her father with tenderness and strength, he continued to be her source of wisdom and encouragement. Their relationship was a beautiful reflection of faith, family, and steadfast loyalty that carried them both through life’s seasons.
Funeral Service
April 29, 2025
Visitation 10:00–12:00
Service 12:00
Jay Funeral Chapel
Officiating: David Boyd
Interment
Cora Baptist Cemetery
12953 Chumuckla Highway
Jay, FL
Pallbearers are nephews
Jimmy Smith
Dakota smith
Dillon Smith
Greg Smith
Pete Smith
Joey Golden
Max Allen Smith
Honorary Pallbearers
Century Lion’s Club Members
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to:
Century Lion’s Club Members
P.O. Box 634
Century, FL 32535
St. Jude’s
ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105
Shriners Children’s
Attn: Shriners Children’s
PO Box 947765
Atlanta, GA 30394
Comments
2 Responses to “William ‘Edsol’ Smith”
Edsol was a bedrock of positive influence on our young lives at Century High School.
As our head basketball and assistant football coach, it was an honor to have played for him. He’s with the Lord now and will be missed but not forgotten.
Roy Hammac, class of 1964.
Mr Smith was principal of Century High School my senior year in 1978-1979; I was scared to death of him, lol.
I also had many opportunities to work with him in his capacity of bondsman when I was a deputy sheriff in Escambia Co, AL.
It was a pleasure knowing and working with him.
Sincere condolences to your family; rest in peace, sir.