Roland James Smith, Sr.

Roland James Smith, Sr., affectionately known for his sharp style and generous spirit, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, at the age of 75.

Born on December 15, 1950, in Jacksonville, Florida, Roland was the youngest child of the late John and Myrtle Smith. From an early age, he carried a vibrant energy and a sense of pride that would define the way he lived his life, always showing up as his best self.

Roland was a proud graduate of the Douglas Anderson High School Class of 1968 and went on to attend Edward Waters College, graduating in 1973 alongside his sister, Juanita, with a degree in Health and Physical Education. His early career included serving as a substitute teacher with Duval County Public Schools and managing the Pine Forest Community Center through the City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation Department, where he made a lasting impact on the youth in his community.

In 1986, Roland relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where he began working at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. He later found his true professional calling as a Master Painter at Emory University, where his craftsmanship, dedication, and pride in his work earned him respect and admiration until his retirement in 2018. Painting was more than a profession for Roland-it was a passion. His talent led him to serve countless clients, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Roland was a man of unmistakable presence. Known as a “sharp-dressed man,” he took pride in always being impeccably put together-whether in formal wear or casual attire, everything matched from head to toe. Known to change clothes as many as three times a day, his ‘fit had to be appropriate for the occasion. He had a deep love of sports, having played basketball in his youth and later leading as the football coach for the Pine Forest Rattlers, baseball coach for the Pine Forest Mays, and umpire for the Pine Forest Hawks. He poured into the next generation with patience and encouragement.

A devoted family man, Roland cherished the Christmas season, finding joy in bringing loved ones together and ensuring that his children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews experienced the magic and warmth of the holidays. His heart was as big as his smile-he was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation.

Roland worshipped at St. Philip African Methodist Episcopal Church, where he remained grounded in faith and community. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Myrtle Smith; and his older brother, Arthur Wiggins, Jr.

Left to honor and hold Roland’s memory near is his beloved family, his son, Roland Smith, Jr.; daughters-in-love, Carmen Peters and Dawn Lopez; son-in-love, Joseph Lopez; his cherished granddaughter, Zaniyah Smith; grandchildren-in-love, Candyce Peters, Darious Peters and Quinton Banks; his loving sisters, Sandra Carter, Mary Smith Dumas, and Juanita Smith; a host of dedicated nieces, nephews, and dear friends who formed a lifelong brotherhood.

Roland James Smith, Sr. will be remembered for his love for his family, his 5am wake up calls, his style, his expert craftsmanship, and above all, his generous heart. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roland James Smith, Sr., please visit our floral store.