Thomas (Tom/Tommy) Preston Smith, 79, Woodstock, Georgia, died surrounded by his loving wife and two adult children on October 9, 2023. He was a devoted husband, father, "Pop," and friend. He is predeceased by his parents, Louise and Preston Smith. He is survived by his wife, Linda Smith, son, Zachary Smith, daughter, Claire (husband Jason) Parker; four grandchildren, Sullivan, Louise, Annie, and Hazel; sister, Mary King; and nieces, Kathryn King and Lauren DeLoach.

Tom was born January 7, 1944, in Waverly Hall, Georgia. He spent much of his boyhood with his cousins, playing outdoors and being mischievous. As a teen, he helped out at his father's service station where he developed his considerably strong work ethic. Tom couldn't wait to get out of his small town and move to the "big city." He studied briefly at Georgia Southwestern and by the mid-1960s Tom was living in Atlanta and had begun a career in sales, which suited his boisterous and friendly personality. Eventually, he opened his own business, The Cheese Crate, a popular wine, cheese and delicatessen in Roswell, which he proudly ran for almost a decade. Following that, he opened Fine & Fancy Foods, where he specialized in selling a variety of gourmet foods including candy and confections, earning him the nickname, "The Candy Man." His son, Zack, joined the business in 2000 and they worked together for many years before Tom retired.

Tom was 26 years old when he met the love of his life and wife of 52 years, Linda, who he affectionally called "Bebe." He and Linda, 22 at the time, were married just six months after meeting. Tom was a devoted father who enjoyed being active in his kids' lives. He never missed a practice or game, took care of the kids when Linda went back to school, and spent most of his free time driving them to and from activities. He was always there for his children and built them up with motivational talks, never criticizing.

He loved UGA football, hot sauce, and spending time with his friends. Tom's friendships were hugely important to him and Tom himself was the most dependable friend a person could ask for. He and Linda enjoyed many decades' long friendships with others. People were drawn to his life-sized personality and his disarming, playful sense of humor. During his Fine & Fancy Food's years, people would come by his booth at trade shows just so that he could poke fun at them. Tom never met a stranger.

Of all his accomplishments, Tom was most proud of his family. He felt that no matter how much wealth or success you had, if you've raised your children to become good people, you've done your most important job. In his later years and through poor health, Linda took close care of her beloved husband. Tom always made it known how much he appreciated the care and sacrifices she made for him. There was never a day in their 52 years of marriage that Linda didn't know he loved her. Words cannot convey how much joy and love Tom brought to those who knew him. He is deeply loved and sorely missed.

A visitation will be held for Tom on Sunday, October 15, 2023, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Lakeside Funeral Home, 121 Claremore Drive in Woodstock, immediately followed by a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to make a donation in Tom's name to a charity of your choosing.