Bro. Sonny Smith, 86

August 4, 1940 – September 14, 2026

Willard “Sonny” Smith, 86, of Huntsville, AL, was called home to be with the Lord on September 14, 2026. He was born August 4, 1940, in Holly Springs, MS to Willard E Smith and Francis Smith Hallmark.



He graduated from New Albany High School, attended Blue Mountain College, and graduated from Reform Theological Seminary.

He was, by worldly standards, a simple man – a Mississippi pastor who never sought recognition, wealth, or position. Yet the measure of a man is not found in what he possesses, but in what he gives, what he stands for, and what he leaves behind in the hearts of others. By that measure his life was immeasurably rich.

Early in his life, he made a decision that would define the rest of his days: he would dedicate his vocation, his passion, his strength, and his life to the Lord God and his people. For over forty years, he served as a pastor, faithfully answering the call to shepherd, encourage, teach, pray for, and love the people entrusted to him. His ministry was never simply a profession but a calling. He was pastor of Harvester Church for over 20 years.

He loved his family dearly. He leaves behind his wife of 63 years, Linda Sprayberry Smith, his daughter Dawn Turner, and son in law Jim Turner of Huntsville, Al; his son Ty Smith, daughter in law Michelle Thomas Smith of Nashville, Tn. Also his granddaughter Anna Mercer of Huntsville Al

Two bothers Ed Smith (Carol), of New Albany, MS and Glen Smith (Mary) of Petal, MS, four nieces and one nephew

A homegoing celebration will be held at United Funeral Home in New Albany, Ms on September 18, 2026. Visitation will be from 11:00 to 1:00 with the funeral service at 1:00. Burial will be at Old Glenfield Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Franklin Graham Ministries.

United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Visitation

Friday, September 18, 2026
11:00AM – 1:00PM
United Funeral Service, Inc.
700 State Highway 15 S
New Albany, MS 38652
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Service

Friday, September 18, 2026
1:00PM
United Funeral Service, Inc.
700 State Highway 15 S
New Albany, MS 38652
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