Beloved Pastor Has Died The Day After His Birthday Of COVID19

Gov. Andy Beshear is continuing his memorials for those Kentuckians who have succumbed to COVID-19, this time remembering the life of a Louisville pastor.

Rev. Gregory Smith, who led the Hill Street Baptist Church for nearly 40 years, died of COVID-19 a day after his 69th birthday, Beshear said in Thursday’s memorial.Advertisement

Smith was described as a beloved pastor who lived by the message of loving thy neighbor and dedicating his life to the service of others.

Beshear said Smith’s daughter described him as the most playful, kind and giving person who has “ever walked the Earth.”

Some of Smith’s work includes leading the congregation, mobilizing people to help those impacted by natural disasters.

Beshear said Smith’s family also found out after his death that he personally helped pay for the tuition of some students at Simmons College of Kentucky.

“This is just who he was,” Smith’s daughter said of her father.

Beshear said Smith’s life impacted people far and wide.

“And (his impact) can easily be seen through the words of his grandson who ‘wants to be just like him when he grows up.'” Beshear said.

Smith leaves behind his wife of 34 years, their three children and his grandchildren.

Smith will lie in state at the church, 2203 Dixie Highway, for public viewing on Friday, December 11, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The funeral service will be private and may be viewed at 1 p.m. Friday on the Facebook page of “Rodgers Awkard Lyons.”

Beshear said Smith’s memorial and all those who have died of COVID-19 should be a reminder to follow COVID-19 measures to protect those around us.

Rev. Dr. Gregory Smith

Louisville – 69, pastor of Hill Street Missionary Baptist Church died on Sunday, December 6, 2020 due to COVID-19 complications. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Tanya A. Smith and three children; Brandon Allen (Kiabe), Caitlin S. Christian (Jayce), and Imani Smith; and four grandchildren. The late Rev. Smith will lie in state at the church, 2203 Dixie Highway, for public viewing on Friday, December 11, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The funeral service will be private and may be viewed at 1 p.m. Friday on the Facebook page of “Rodgers Awkard Lyons.” Interment will be in Green Meadows Cemetery. Professional services by Rodgers-Awkard & Lyons Funeral Home.