Thomas John "Hooker" Smith

Mr. Thomas John “Hooker” Smith, 83, of Hartwell, GA, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Rainey Hospice House in Anderson, SC.

Thomas was born in Jersey City, NJ on April 15, 1941, son of the late Matthew John Smith and Jessie Vaughn Wallace Yeagley. He was the proud owner/operator of Hilltop VW Repair for over 50 years. Thomas served his country with the U.S. Army special forces during the Korean conflict. He was a life member and former commander of VFW Post 8076, and a member of American Legion 109.

Surviving are his loving wife of over 50 years, Judith Eve Frisch Smith; children: Matthew and Michelle Smith, Andrea Smith, Tina Richardson, and Sheila Smith; grandchildren: Duran and Kelsey Richardson, Lanie Brown, Braxton Smith, and Pyer Smith; great-grandson, Thomas Richardson; siblings: Clyde and Dottie Yeagley, Connie Clark, Michele and Ron Boykin, Vickie Ludwig, and Matthew Smith; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ronnie Yeagley; and sister, Diana Gemma.

A celebration of Hooker's life will be held on Friday, May 2, from 6:00-8:00p.m. at 81 Flat Rock Road, Hartwell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Thomas to Rainey Hospice House at hospiceoftheupstate.com or to VFW Post 8076 at venmo.com/uVFWPost8076.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is assisting the family of Mr. Thomas John “Hooker” Smith.