Smith, Earl D.

Ypsilanti, MI

Age 82, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024 at home. He was born May 11, 1942 in Tazewell, Tennessee, the son of James and Lola (Ward) Smith.

Earl was a licensed and accomplished builder who bought the land, would design the home, obtain the building supplies and build the home from the ground up. They were beautiful, well-built homes from start to finish. He was a perfectionist. Earl always put his family first. He adored his grandchildren. He was a humble, kind and loving man, treating others with respect and honoring his word.

Earl was also retired from the Ypsilanti Township Fire Department and a proud Army Veteran. In his spare time, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed many outings and singings with his church family and service at Ypsilanti Missionary Baptist Church every Sunday.

Earl is survived by Suzanne Smith, daughter Sherri (Paolo) Smith-Degiuli, grandchildren Samantha Cathryn Degiuli and Lukas Earl Degiuli; sister-in-law Debbie Campbell, nieces and nephews Amanda, Dean, Joe, Julie, Lance, Tammy, and Terri. He is also survived by many loving relatives and friends.

Earl is preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Shirley (George) Hatmaker and Henry (Brenda) Smith.

A Funeral will be held Friday, July 12, 2024 at 1 pm at Stark Funeral Professionals, with Pastor Joe Kennedy officiating. Military Honors will be presented under the direction of the Washtenaw County Honor Guard. Burial will follow at St. John Cemetery.