Bobby Claude Smith

Bobby Claude Smith, age 88, passed away on August 2, 2022 at SAAD's Hospice Retreat. Bobby was born on July 7, 1934. At an early age he had a love for music and was a gifted singer and musician. On December 28, 1953, a age 19, he married the love of his life, Jeffie Jean Wallace. Bobby's jobs during the week were in paint and body work, plumbing, as an optical technician, and at Alabama Dry Dock & Shipbuilding. On the weekends, he played country music among the best musicians in the South. Bobby's band opened for country music stars Merle Haggard, Conway Twitty, Ernest Tub, Buck Owens, and Hank Williams, Jr., to name a few. In February 1969, he and Jean were invited to church by their longtime friend and former band member, Ray Thompson. It was then that they gave their heart to God and Bobby began to sing a new song. Shortly after, he became part of a new group, "The Gospel Sounds." They traveled many years on weekends around around the Southeast, ministering in song. Bobby began his new career, producing music, at his all-gospel recording studio in Saraland, AL. At Gospel Sound Productions, Bobby recorded countless local individuals and groups. He so enjoyed the relationships made during those recording sessions. Through the years, Bobby influenced many with his consistent Christian walk. He had a gentle and kind demeanor and was always ready to listen. In the late 90s, he was part of a new group, "The Last Call Band." The group consisted of former country band members, now reunited as Christians, to worship God through their talents. Those who knew Bobby loved to hear him sing. His last serenade was at his 88th birthday part in July, where he held the room captive with his deep, smooth voice. Bobby was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 67 years, Jeffie Jean Wallace Smith; parents, James Arthur and Emma L. Cook Smith; and sisters, Kathryn Smith Honaker and Ernestine Smith Smith. Bobby is survived by his children, Bobby Gene Smith, Robby Dean Smith (Teresa), Claude Jeffery Smith, James Arthur Smith (Kelly), and Emma Smith Smith (Howard); 10 grandchildren, Abigail Marshall, Laurie Jean Williams, Tommy Smith, Jamie Dykes, Leigh Ann Havens, Danielle Neth, Dean Smith, Jordan Willis, Cameron Smith, and James Smith; 10 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Bobby was an early member of Chickasaw Assembly of God, and then Calvary Temple Assembly of God. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2022 from 12-2 PM, followed by service at 2 PM. Interment will be held in Serenity Memorial Gardens.

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Bobby Claude Smith

July 7, 1934 - August 2, 2022