Richard Smith

Richard Michael Smith of Carrollton, GA, died on Tuesday, May 12, 2015. He was born on June 8, 1945 in Fort Worth, Texas. Michael was a proud graduate of the University of Florida, and held an MBA from UNC Chapel Hill. In 1992 Michael co-founded and became Senior Partner of Smith James Group, Inc., a leading retained executive search firm, once the third largest search firm in the Southeast, which remains his business legacy. Michael was a rabid fan of the Gators, ZZ Top, Harley Davidson, and his grandsons. He was a connoisseur of pizza and Mexican food, and drank his weight in “Arnold Palmers” many, many times over. He enjoyed 28 years as a faithful and active member of AA, and a proud sponsor of many a member himself. Michael was a friend and mentor to all, and was an open-minded receiver of both himself. He was one of a select few individuals who could pull off wearing loafers with sweat pants, a flannel shirt, and a leather driving cap. (As such, he might also be considered The Original Hipster.) He never missed an opportunity to tell you he loved you, or share why he was proud of you. He had a quick smile, a big laugh, and always a story at the ready. He is survived by: his wife, Melba; his son Stephen; his daughter, Elizabeth, her husband Mark, and their children, Cooper, Justin, and Max; by his sister Toni Wade and her husband, Doug; by his sister Mary Tish Wharton and her family, and by his dog, Guido. He was preceded in death by his father Richard Brunot Smith, his stepmother Margaret Groover Smith and his mother Letitia Monahan and step father Edward Monahan.A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 30th, at 2pm at the Marietta Educational Garden Center at 505 Kennesaw Avenue, Marietta, GA 30064. All friends and family are invited to attend and celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions be made to your favorite charity in memory of Mr. Smith. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.jones-wynn.com. Jones-Wynn Funeral Home, Inc. and Cremation Services of Villa Rica in charge of arrangements. 770-459-3694