Benjie Nichalas Smith, 44, of Crescent City, entered the sunset of life on Thursday, April 6, 2023, at Select Specialty Hospital in Gainesville, FL.
The son of Carl and Betty Smith, he was born on Friday, September 22, 1978, in Crescent City. He completed elementary, middle, and part of his high school years in the Putnam County School District. During his sophomore year, he transferred to FAMU DRS High School in Tallahassee, Florida, where he graduated in the Class of 1997.
He furthered his education at Florida A and M University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering Technology in 2013. After graduation, Benjie held several jobs in the engineering field. Later, he became self-employed as an independent contractor, forming his own company, Smith Quality Engineering Support Services LLC. His last contract was with Raytheon Technologies Inc. Although Benjie was an alumnus of Florida A and M University and loved the Rattlers, he was an avid Florida Gator fan. Benjie was also a fan of basketball legend, Lebron James. Benjie’s heart has always been and will always be with the Crescent City House of God Church.
He leaves to cherish his memories, a beautiful dearly beloved daughter, Jewel’liana Christine Smith, whom he called “Daddy’s Little Princess”; faithful parents, Carl Smith, Sr. and Betty Evans Smith; siblings, Vincent K. Whitaker (special friend, Debra); Carl (Apryl) Smith, Jr. and a very loved and adored sister, Fabray (Timothy) Smith-Wiggins; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Visitation of family and friends will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, April 14, 2023, at Crescent City House of God, 1020 Clemons Lane, Crescent City, FL; Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m., Saturday, April 15, 2023, at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church – South Campus, 608 Randolph St., Crescent City, FL 32112. Elder Carolyn Daniels, Crescent City House of God, is the Eulogist. Interment will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Crescent City.
Online condolences: www.flaggserenitychapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Karl N. Flagg Serenity Memorial Chapel, 2400 Madison Street, Palatka, FL.
Published by Palatka Daily News on Apr. 13, 2023.
