Joe Smoot

Joseph Saint Smoot fell asleep in death on January 8th, 2026. My father was born on January 7th, 1949, to parents Althanata & William Smoot of Cottonport, LA. He grew up in a time when life was much simpler and when kindess was plentiful. He was a long-time resident of Avoyelles Parish. He was more than a parent – he was my guide, my protector, and my greatest supporter. Being the “Jack of all Trades”, he never had a set career but chose to move around in many fields. He was a simple man and deeply rooted in his faith. He dedicated his life in the service of Jehovah; everyone called him “Brother Joe”. He also served as a Ministerial Servant for years, attended many Regular Pioneer Schools and was also many times an Auxiliary Pioneer. He loved going door to door with his fellow brothers and sisters. He enjoyed meeting new people, he was truly an extrovert. He could talk to anyone and could make you believe that they must have known each other for years. He taught me the value of heard work, honesty, compassion, integrity, and showed me through his actions what unconditional love truly means.

Dad loved telling stories that would make everyone laugh, loved to cook, and has in the service of others volunteered many times to assist in cooking for the Regional Building Committee. He loved his sister Cora Bell dearly and it wasn’t unusual for me to hear them fussing with other on the phone every other day. When he was being stubborn it wasn’t unusual to have her call me to tell me what he was doing and boy, that didn’t sit to well with him. He would always say, “That’s all Cora Bell do is fuss! She fussing over nothing!”. In the end, he knew she loved him, so he let her have her way. His laughter was contagious, his wisdom unmatched, and his hugs the place I felt the safest.

He is survived by his sister, Cora Bell Smoot; daughters, Kiyle Marie Smooth, Kimberly Smooth-Burkhalter, Kayla Smooth-McGee; sons, Joe Smoot, Jr., Nick Jenkins, and Gerald Smoot; stepson, Michael Jones, Jr. He was preceded in death by his mother, Althanata Hayes; father, William Smoot; brothers, Jesse Smoot and William Smoot, Sr.; sister, Aridenall Brembry; and his daughter, Chefondolynn Treenae Smooth.

Dad, you will forever be in all our hearts. We’ll share stories, tears, and laughter in celebrating your life. Thank you for being my hero, my teacher, and my best friend. I love you always.