Lionel Smith, III

Lionel Francis Smith, III, 60 years old, was called to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on November 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He entered this world on October 21, 1965, born to Margaret Smith Eichelberger in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Lionel was a true Louisiana sportsman that enjoyed the outdoors. But his love of hunting and fishing was nothing compared to being with his family. He was the very definition of what it means to be a family man. The love he poured into his family overflowed into friendships, touching others so deeply that many came to regard him as a father. The impact that he made on the lives around him will never be forgotten. He was always there to lend a helping hand when needed, dish out advice when asked, or just be a listening ear to help comfort. His humble heart, strong faith, and loving nature made him a man to revere.

Lionel is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Betty Jones Smith; two sons, Dean Smith (Cindy Smith), and Bobby Smith (Madison Smith); one daughter, Paige McHugh (Ezra McHugh); 5 grandchildren, Evelyn Smith, Weston Smith, Madeleine McHugh, Luke McHugh, and Nolan McHugh; mom, Margaret Smith Eichelberger; sisters, Mary Alice Standford (Scott Standford) and Joni Rushing (Gene Rushing); and a host of nephews and nieces.

Serving as pallbearers will be Dean Smith, Bobby Smith, Ezra McHugh, Troy Ducote, Trent Rogillio, and Herchiel Devalcourt.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation at Baker Funeral Home, 6401 Groom Road, Baker, LA, on Monday, December 1, 2025, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. The visitation will continue at Concord Baptist Church, 7125 Bogue Chitto Rd SE, McCall Creek, MS, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Jimmy Babin. The graveside service and burial will follow at Concord Baptist Church Cemetery, in McCall Creek, Mississippi.

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:4