Guyton, GA – Willard Blaine Smith, Jr., 79, passed away Sunday, January 21, 2024 at his home.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, but lived most of his life in Buncombe County, NC. He was a member of New Bridge Baptist Church and became an artist in the textile industry, having to help design NASA badges, including the Apollo designs.  He was a musician, playing both the guitar and banjo, and he also enjoyed cooking.

Survivors include his wife, Pamela Smith; children, Connie Smith (Scott) and Willard Blaine Smith, III (Jean); sister, Lynn Pittman; brother, Jeffery Smith (Rachel); step-sons, Tristan Burchett and Alistair Burchett; mother-in-law, Barbara Brown; brother-in-law, Gabriel Beck; 8 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at a later date.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel (912) 754-6421