Sidney Franklin "Sid" Smith

COURTESY OBITUARY

Sidney Franklin Smith, "Sid", passed away on April 24th, 2023 after a memorable life. Sid was born August 7th, 1947, and grew up on the family farm in Lincolnton, GA, with his sisters, Blanche (Presley) and Isabelle (Tanner). He was particularly close to his Uncle Clint, who lived on the family farm. He was an Eagle Scout, and graduated from Lincolnton HS as the salutatorian. He earned a degree in Biology from Georgia Tech in 1969, and then joined the Air Force, where he flew the F-101 "Voodoo," and served until 1976. Sid married Joanne Pinner, his wife of 50 years, in February 1972, after a short courtship. They lived in Cape Cod briefly before moving to Tyndall AFB. After an honorable discharge in 1976, Sid flew for Saudia Airlines, before joining United Airlines in 1977. Sid loved the freedom of flying, and he flew for United for over 30 years. In 1978 his first son, Jeff, was born, followed by Eric in 1979. They moved to their beloved Evergreen in 1985. In 1993, the family was involved in a serious plane crash. Sid suffered significant head trauma as well as internal injuries, but after months of rehab, returned to flying for United. He retired in 2008. Sid was a savvy entrepreneur, a lifelong tinkerer, an IPA lover, and a delightful charmer. After retiring from United, he traded airplanes for his John Deere tractor, which he called "John." He is predeceased by his wife, Joanne, and Mother, Virginia Hogan Smith. Along with his sons Jeff (Darisse), and Eric (Anna), Sid had three grandsons, Khelan (12), Shay (11) and Devin (11). There will be a celebration of life on August 26th in Evergreen. There is also a bench in Stagecoach Park in Evergreen, placed in remembrance of Sid and Joanne. Donations in his name may be made to Pilots N Paws https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=89KRW62LETNDS