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Celebrating the life of
Matthew I. Smoak
January 17, 1959 - September 17, 2017
Matthew I. Smoak, 58, passed away on Sunday, September 17, 2017 at his home.
Matt was known as an excellent goldsmith and a long-time jeweler at Levy Jewelers but everyone knew his true passions were his love for goofing around, hunting, golfing, inventing and especially fishing. The water was such a second nature to him that he was dubbed a “fishing machine”. He will be remembered on long fishing trips from Moon River to Ossabaw Island and everything in between. The fish of Montgomery had acquired such a fear for Matt that sometimes they were never to be found.
If there was ever a deal to be discovered, Matt would find it to add to his collection. He loved getting up on Saturday mornings to search out garage sales. Little trinkets, knives, flashlights, clothes and tools are just to name a few things he sought after. He kept a lot of it but he also gave a lot of it away and made sure to give you things you didn’t know you needed or added to your own collection of junk.
His new mission will take him to a place where late night chocolate milk, corny dad jokes and an endless supply of fish in the sea are guaranteed.
He is preceded in death by his father, Charles I. Smoak. He is survived by his two children, Garon Smoak (Kelly) and Chandler Smoak (Demitri); mother, Nonie Smoak; sister, Caroline Smoak (Lacy); brothers, Dana (Jennifer), Brett (Julie), and Mark Smoak; and several nieces and nephews.
The visitation will be on Thursday, September 21, 2017 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel from 10:00 – 11:00 followed by the memorial service at 11:00 am.
We would like to thank Hospice Savannah and his nurse Gwen for the exceptional care. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice Savannah.
Please join us at Barnes Restaurant on Waters Avenue after the ceremony from 12:00PM-2:00P
We were saddened to learn of Matt's death. We were in Atlanta for our New Year holiday or we would have been at the service. Matt was so talented and we were always amazed at what he could design and create. We send our sincere sympathy to the entire family. Dayle and Aaron Levy
- Dayle and Aaron Levy, Savannah, Ga
So sorry to hear about Matt. Hadn't seen him in years but he was always such a nice person. Was friends with Caroline and we always was together either at her home or my house in the summer when we were kids. Prayers for the family.
- Becky Graham Williams, Sylvania , Ga
I am so sorry for your loss and with him being so young it is definitely hard to take. Take comfort in knowing that soon those asleep in death will hear the voice of the Son and wake to life again. John 5:28,29
- Monica K., ,
You all have my sincere condolences for your loss. Matt was my classmate. May God bless you all and keep you lifTed up. You will be with him again.
- Barbara Solomon Myers, Richmond Hill, Ga
My sincere condolences.Losing loved ones in death is very difficult.May you be comforted by the words found at Psalms 34:18;Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted;He saves those who are crushed in spirit.
- Givens, Pooler, Ga
I'm so sorry for your loss...what terrible news this is! Matt was always one of my favorites in high school with that great sense of humor and love of life. Please know that I'm holding you up in my prayers; I can only imagine what a terrible time this must be for your family.
- Betsy Duggan Haid, Atlanta, GA
I am so sorry for your loss.
- Julie Rosier Collins, New York, NY
So very sorry for the family and friends loss of my high school classmate.
- Sharon Hunter Wells, Statesboro, GA
So sorry to hear this. Prayers for comfort to the family. May God Bless You!!!
- Gregg and Toni Reddick Ellison, Sylvania, GA
I'm so sorry to hear of Matt's passing. I cherish the childhood memories that we shared. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Jamie Porter
- Jamie Porter, Clyo, Ga
Matt was so personable and nice to be around. I am so sorry. You all are in mu prayers.
- Alecia Evans, Newington, GA
I knew Matt through his involvement with the Savannah Lapidary Club some years ago and am so sad to hear of his passing. He was fun to be around, a wealth of knowledge about gems, metals and jewelry and an overall nice guy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his children Garon and Chandler. Rest in peace, Matt...
- Cheryl Sanders, Richmond Hill, GA
I have know Matt for many years...although I am closer to his sister Caroline, I considered Matt a good friend. I haven't seen him in many years, but I wanted to share something with you. Not too long ago, I came "home" (Savannah) to visit my Mother (She worked with Matt and thought a lot of him!). While we were out roaming the town, Matt came by her house and left a cooler full of food! What a great guy! May God continue to bless and comfort you all!
- Rhonda Coley, Garner, NC
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God comfort you throughout the coming days. God Bless.
- Becky and Glenn Jones, Sylvania, GA
I am sorry for your loss. Death is painful to all of us. However God's word the Bible always offers encouragement. A scripture I find comforting is Isaiah 25:8. There Jehovah promises to do away with death and all things that bring us pain. That will be very satisfying! I hope this thought has been comforting to you. May positive thoughts fill you hearts and minds as you endure this difficult time.
- R.G., Savannah, Ga
Prayers for comfort in this sad time.
- Connie McMillan Roe, Sylvania, Ga
Christy, Garon, Chandler, and Aunt Reba, I'm offering prayers for Matt and for you during this difficult time. Eternal Rest grant to him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. With Affection and Prayers, Mark
- Fr. Mark Ross, Augusta, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with in your loss. May God Bless and Comfort all of you during this time.
- Bobby and Kaye Smith, Rocky Ford,
I was a neighbor and classmate of Matt's and saddened by the news of his death. Praying for a peaceful heart for his family. God speed.
- Teresa Davis Nessmith, Statesboro, Ga
Garon and Chan, so sorry about your loss .....hugs n prayers !!!
- Shawny Herr, North Augusta, Sc
You are in our thoughts and prayers...gone way to early. Knowing Mr. ?Charles was there to greet him.
- Ed and Lee Thompson, Sylvania, Ga
My sincerest condolences go out to your family, it's never easy losing someone in death. May you take comfort in God's promise found at Revelation 21:4, which says "he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” This verse brought me peace when I experienced loss, I hope it can do the same for you. May the memories you have give you strength during this difficult time.
- Mckenzie , Savannah , Ga
Our family is saddened to learn of Matt's passing. We send our deepest and most sincere sympathies. Today and in the days to come we hold you in prayer.
- The Walter Smith Family : Chris, Cone, Cathy, Walt & Crystal , Newington , GA
Condolences to the family, Mary and I graduated from SCREVEN COUNTY IN 1977. He will surely be missed. Loretta Wadley Cosby
- Loretta Cosby, Sylvania, Ga
Rest in Heavenly Peace, classmate.
- Cheryl Fulcher Moore, Midland, Ga
Hugs and prayers for your family at this time.
- carole tutan, savannah, ga
So sorry to hear about Matt. Had not seen him in many years, but still have fond memories of him when he worked at Torrington. Please accept my sympathy in your loss.
- Dot Cauley, Sylvania, Ga.
Please know you are in our prayers. We love you all.
- George & Ada Ruth Jenkins, Statesboro, Ga
So sad to hear of Matt's passing! Our prayers are with Mrs Nonie, Dana and the rest of the family.
- Cleve & Diane Freeman , Sylvania, Ga
I was so sorry to see about the death.
- Em Hunter, Sylvania,
So sorry to here of Matt's passing. Praying for family and friends. Have such fond memories of him and his family. Paul and Janet Murray
- Paul and Janet Murray, Pace, FL
Our thoughts and prayers are with all family and friends during this difficult time. God bless.
- Craig & Angie Steinhaus, Sylvania, Ga
Caroline, My sincere condolences to you and your family. May God strengthen and comfort the family during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Terri Harris, Birmingham, Al
My heart breaks for the entire family. Matt and his entire family always treated me like a family member.
- Brenda woodcock, Statesboro,
Sending my condolences. So sorry for your loss! Prayers being sent up for the Family.
- Jennifer Collins Long, Pigeon, MI
I'm so sorry to hear of Matts passing, Heartfelt condolences to the family, May God wrap His loving arms around you and comfort you during this difficult time. With love and deepest sympathies, Teresa
- Teresa Mosley, Sylvania , Ga
I'm so very sorry to hear about Matt. Sending prayers of comfort at this difficult time.
- Berry Collins, Atlanta, GA
I was heartbroken to hear of Matt's passing. He was such a sweet, funny guy and I treasured our friendship though I hadn't seen him in a while. Sending prayers for his children, mother, and other loved ones.
- Sylvia Hutcheson, Sylvania, GA
I am so sorry to hear the news about Matt. My prayers for the family.
- Kim Brower Kendrick, Forsyth (from Sylvania), GA
My heart is breaking for you and your entire family. I am sending prayers for strength, faith, peace and understanding in the difficult days ahead. May you feel the presence of the Savior's arms wrapped around each and every one of you. ?? I will keep you all in my prayers. Julie R. Knight Sylvania, Ga. Brooklet, Ga.
- , ,
So sorry to hear of Matt's death. No one should have to bury their children. Hold fast, God has not forsaken you.
- Zandra Perkins Overstreet, Newington , Ga
We were saddened to learn of Matt's death. We were in Atlanta for our New Year holiday or we would have been at the service. Matt was so talented and we were always amazed at what he could design and create. We send our sincere sympathy to the entire family. Dayle and Aaron Levy
- Dayle and Aaron Levy, Savannah, Ga
So sorry to hear about Matt. Hadn't seen him in years but he was always such a nice person. Was friends with Caroline and we always was together either at her home or my house in the summer when we were kids. Prayers for the family.
- Becky Graham Williams, Sylvania , Ga
I am so sorry for your loss and with him being so young it is definitely hard to take. Take comfort in knowing that soon those asleep in death will hear the voice of the Son and wake to life again. John 5:28,29
- Monica K., ,
You all have my sincere condolences for your loss. Matt was my classmate. May God bless you all and keep you lifTed up. You will be with him again.
- Barbara Solomon Myers, Richmond Hill, Ga
My sincere condolences.Losing loved ones in death is very difficult.May you be comforted by the words found at Psalms 34:18;Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted;He saves those who are crushed in spirit.
- Givens, Pooler, Ga
I'm so sorry for your loss...what terrible news this is! Matt was always one of my favorites in high school with that great sense of humor and love of life. Please know that I'm holding you up in my prayers; I can only imagine what a terrible time this must be for your family.
- Betsy Duggan Haid, Atlanta, GA
I am so sorry for your loss.
- Julie Rosier Collins, New York, NY
So very sorry for the family and friends loss of my high school classmate.
- Sharon Hunter Wells, Statesboro, GA
So sorry to hear this. Prayers for comfort to the family. May God Bless You!!!
- Gregg and Toni Reddick Ellison, Sylvania, GA
I'm so sorry to hear of Matt's passing. I cherish the childhood memories that we shared. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Jamie Porter
- Jamie Porter, Clyo, Ga
Matt was so personable and nice to be around. I am so sorry. You all are in mu prayers.
- Alecia Evans, Newington, GA
I knew Matt through his involvement with the Savannah Lapidary Club some years ago and am so sad to hear of his passing. He was fun to be around, a wealth of knowledge about gems, metals and jewelry and an overall nice guy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his children Garon and Chandler. Rest in peace, Matt...
- Cheryl Sanders, Richmond Hill, GA
I have know Matt for many years...although I am closer to his sister Caroline, I considered Matt a good friend. I haven't seen him in many years, but I wanted to share something with you. Not too long ago, I came "home" (Savannah) to visit my Mother (She worked with Matt and thought a lot of him!). While we were out roaming the town, Matt came by her house and left a cooler full of food! What a great guy! May God continue to bless and comfort you all!
- Rhonda Coley, Garner, NC
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God comfort you throughout the coming days. God Bless.
- Becky and Glenn Jones, Sylvania, GA
I am sorry for your loss. Death is painful to all of us. However God's word the Bible always offers encouragement. A scripture I find comforting is Isaiah 25:8. There Jehovah promises to do away with death and all things that bring us pain. That will be very satisfying! I hope this thought has been comforting to you. May positive thoughts fill you hearts and minds as you endure this difficult time.
- R.G., Savannah, Ga
Prayers for comfort in this sad time.
- Connie McMillan Roe, Sylvania, Ga
Christy, Garon, Chandler, and Aunt Reba, I'm offering prayers for Matt and for you during this difficult time. Eternal Rest grant to him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. With Affection and Prayers, Mark
- Fr. Mark Ross, Augusta, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with in your loss. May God Bless and Comfort all of you during this time.
- Bobby and Kaye Smith, Rocky Ford,
I was a neighbor and classmate of Matt's and saddened by the news of his death. Praying for a peaceful heart for his family. God speed.
- Teresa Davis Nessmith, Statesboro, Ga
Garon and Chan, so sorry about your loss .....hugs n prayers !!!
- Shawny Herr, North Augusta, Sc
- Shawny Herr , Georg
You are in our thoughts and prayers...gone way to early. Knowing Mr. ?Charles was there to greet him.
- Ed and Lee Thompson, Sylvania, Ga
My sincerest condolences go out to your family, it's never easy losing someone in death. May you take comfort in God's promise found at Revelation 21:4, which says "he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” This verse brought me peace when I experienced loss, I hope it can do the same for you. May the memories you have give you strength during this difficult time.
- Mckenzie , Savannah , Ga
Our family is saddened to learn of Matt's passing. We send our deepest and most sincere sympathies. Today and in the days to come we hold you in prayer.
- The Walter Smith Family : Chris, Cone, Cathy, Walt & Crystal , Newington , GA
Condolences to the family, Mary and I graduated from SCREVEN COUNTY IN 1977. He will surely be missed. Loretta Wadley Cosby
- Loretta Cosby, Sylvania, Ga
Rest in Heavenly Peace, classmate.
- Cheryl Fulcher Moore, Midland, Ga
Hugs and prayers for your family at this time.
- carole tutan, savannah, ga
So sorry to hear about Matt. Had not seen him in many years, but still have fond memories of him when he worked at Torrington. Please accept my sympathy in your loss.
- Dot Cauley, Sylvania, Ga.
Please know you are in our prayers. We love you all.
- George & Ada Ruth Jenkins, Statesboro, Ga
- Henry & Sharon Turner , South Caro
So sad to hear of Matt's passing! Our prayers are with Mrs Nonie, Dana and the rest of the family.
- Cleve & Diane Freeman , Sylvania, Ga
I was so sorry to see about the death.
- Em Hunter, Sylvania,
So sorry to here of Matt's passing. Praying for family and friends. Have such fond memories of him and his family. Paul and Janet Murray
- Paul and Janet Murray, Pace, FL
Our thoughts and prayers are with all family and friends during this difficult time. God bless.
- Craig & Angie Steinhaus, Sylvania, Ga
Caroline, My sincere condolences to you and your family. May God strengthen and comfort the family during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Terri Harris, Birmingham, Al
- Rhonda Coley , North Caro
My heart breaks for the entire family. Matt and his entire family always treated me like a family member.
- Brenda woodcock, Statesboro,
Sending my condolences. So sorry for your loss! Prayers being sent up for the Family.
- Jennifer Collins Long, Pigeon, MI
I'm so sorry to hear of Matts passing, Heartfelt condolences to the family, May God wrap His loving arms around you and comfort you during this difficult time. With love and deepest sympathies, Teresa
- Teresa Mosley, Sylvania , Ga
I'm so very sorry to hear about Matt. Sending prayers of comfort at this difficult time.
- Berry Collins, Atlanta, GA
I was heartbroken to hear of Matt's passing. He was such a sweet, funny guy and I treasured our friendship though I hadn't seen him in a while. Sending prayers for his children, mother, and other loved ones.
- Sylvia Hutcheson, Sylvania, GA
- Vivian Rowe Schroder , Georg
I am so sorry to hear the news about Matt. My prayers for the family.
- Kim Brower Kendrick, Forsyth (from Sylvania), GA
My heart is breaking for you and your entire family. I am sending prayers for strength, faith, peace and understanding in the difficult days ahead. May you feel the presence of the Savior's arms wrapped around each and every one of you. ?? I will keep you all in my prayers. Julie R. Knight Sylvania, Ga. Brooklet, Ga.
- , ,
So sorry to hear of Matt's death. No one should have to bury their children. Hold fast, God has not forsaken you.
- Zandra Perkins Overstreet, Newington , Ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200