Harlon Gene Smith

Harlon Gene “Col. Gene” Smith, 85 of Lawrenceburg, TN passed away on June 26, 2025 at Southern TN Regional Health System in Lawrenceburg, TN.  He was born on November 4, 1939 to the late Hampton and Verla Staggs Smith in Lawrenceburg, TN.  He worked as a real estate agent for 45 years and was also an auctioneer.  He loved spending time with his family and friends.  Mr. Smith served his country honorably in the U.S. Air Force and the TN Army National Guard.  For saving the life of a fellow guardsman, he received the TN National Guard Distinguished Service Medal.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hampton and Verla Staggs Smith.

His is survived by his wife of 65 years, Claudine Dupre Smith; two daughters, Verla Martin (Derrick) of Lawrenceburg, TN, and Vickie Dyer (Michael) of Murfreesboro, TN; two sons, Virgil Smith (Ruby) of Goodlettsville, TN, and Ralph Smith of Waynesboro, TN; twelve grandchildren, Jennifer Kitchens, Brian Kitchens, Blake Martin (Paige), Jaicy Luna, Josh Wilson (Micah), Danielle Dyer, Rachael Daniels (Ethan), Sarah Dillard (Hunter), Matthew Smith (Kelly), Zach Smith, Cade Smith (Alivia), and Jase Smith; twelve great-grandchildren, Wyatt Wilson, Mattie Wilson, Zeb Wilson, Adah Wilson, Brody Kitchens, Jolie Daniels, Nathan Daniels, Dax Swafford, Cooper Martin, Eli Martin, Reese Martin, and Karysn Martin; two sisters, Sonya Gallaher and Charlotte Grooms (David); several nieces, nephews, and one special cousin, D. T. Hughes.

With grateful hearts, we want to thank Southern TN Regional Health System for their kindness.  We would also like to thank Helen with the Lawrence County Senior Citizens for the care shown to our father.

Arrangements are being handled by Neal Funeral Home, 231 N. Military Avenue, Lawrenceburg, Tennessee.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Wednesday, July 02, 2025, at Neal Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted at Neal Funeral Home at 11:00 AM Thursday, July 03, 2025, with Danny Pettus officiating.  Interment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery in Ethridge, TN with full military honors. The family suggests memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  Condolences may be sent by way of our website at www.nealfuneralhome.net.