Walter L. Smith

Walter Luther Smith, 86, of Gainesville passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, leaving behind his loving children and sister, many cherished memories, and a legacy of faithfulness and service to his country.

Major Walter Smith served in the United States Army, traveled the world, and led a distinguished, honorable career of courage. After the Army, Walter continued his dedicated duty as a civilian in the United States Department of Defense, serving with honor across the world. Born and raised in Northeast Georgia, Walter was loved and surrounded by a wide circle of friends and family, including his life-long Church family at Central Baptist Church in Gainesville.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Loyal and Jonnie Smith, his wife Carol Ann Smith, and 2 brothers Verla and Aubrey Smith.

He is survived by his 4 children, Christina Ann Coalson (Travis), Suzanne Brown, Gordon Brown (Sharon) and Richard Brown (Vicki), 6 grandchildren, Eric and Caroline Coalson, Hunter Norton, Taylor Brown, Richelle Henry and Tony Brown, and 3 great-grandchildren Shia and Mila Beach, and Kai Norton, and sister, Micki Walker (Tony) and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

 Walter was a soldier, eagerly accepting his duty and all of his life’s adventures, He deeply loved and cherished his wife Carol, his children and his extended family. Walter was the most genuine human being you ever had the privilege to meet, and an incredible son, husband, dad, brother and grandaddy.

 A celebration of Walter will be at the Little and Davenport Funeral Home, 355 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, Georgia 30501. A viewing will be Tuesday, April 15 from 6 pm to 8 pm, and a funeral service Wednesday, April 16 at 2 pm, with Pastor Mike Taylor officiating along with Military Honors at Alta Vista Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.com

Those wishing to send online condolences to the family may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Highway, SW, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 is in charge of arrangements.

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