Nathan Ballard Smith, age 83, of Middlesboro, KY, gained his Heavenly wings on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. He was born on October 7, 1940, in Middlesboro, KY to Wesley and Mayola Carmack Smith, who preceded him in death.

In addition to his parents, Ballard was preceded in death by his wife, Connie Smith; sons, Jessie James Smith, Jimmy Ballard, Scotty Smith, and Carl Edward Smith; daughter, Julie Gabbard; grandsons, Michael Gilbert and George Arnold Gabbard, Jr.; granddaughter, Jennifer Ann Smith; great-grandson, David Carnelious Coleman; brothers, Harvey Smith, Gene Smith, and Bill Brown; sisters, Louise Brown and Audie Brown.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Irene (Boone) Hall, Gail (George) Gabbard, and Sarah (Jet) Laws; daughter-in-law, Mary Collett; 21 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Danny Ray Smith; sisters, Rita (Bill) Jackson, Gladys (Don) Owens, and Linda Sue (Eddie) Johnston; and special friend, James Epperson; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.

The family of Nathan Ballard Smith received friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will follow at 7:00 p.m. with Rev. Jeff Hatfield presiding. 

Graveside services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 18, 2024, in the Smith Cemetery, Middlesboro, KY.

Pallbearers were Chris Smith, George Gabbard, Jonathan Mason, Cody Owens, and Caleb Owens. 

Online condolences and register book are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Nathan Ballard Smith are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home.