Jason Lajay Smith

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jason Lajay Smith, who left this world on March 24th, 2026 at the age of 48.

Jason was a lifelong resident of Cleveland, TN. He was a loving husband, devoted father, a proud "Pop J," uncle, son, brother and friend. He will be remembered for his big heart, his sense of humor, his willingness to help others and extend kindness to all, and the love he had for his family.

He enjoyed working out at the gym, grilling and spending time outdoors. He also served his community through his time volunteering with rescue and the police reserve, something he took great pride in.

He shared a special bond with his Granny, who was a huge part of his life. He loved to prank call her bringing tears of laughter to everyone lucky enough to witness it. Jason was an incredible cook and loved to grill and cook for others, whether that was smoking meat, baking delicious cookies, or his famous award winning chili.

He showed his love most through the way he cared for those closest to him. As a father, he was steady, supportive, and always encouraging. As Pop J, he found pure joy in his grandchildren, he loved riding them on his lawn mower, playing outside with them, and simply being present in their lives.

Jason loved his children deeply and was incredibly proud of them. His son, Harrison Smith and daughter Madison Davis, whom he loved with all his heart and who loved him just as deeply.

He had a remarkable gift for making people laugh. Whether it was a quick joke, poking fun at someone, a playful comment, or his natural sense of humor, Jason could lighten any room and bring a smile to those around him. His laughter was contagious, and his ability to find humor-even in the little things-will never be forgotten.

Jason will be remembered for the laughter he brought to any situation, his kind heart that always saw the best in others, his love, and the light he brought into the lives of those who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing we will see him again.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years and mother of his children Brandy Smith; His son Harrison (Sasha) Smith; and daughter Madison (Clint) Davis; his grandchildren he adored, Luke Smith, Everett Smith, Lily Grace Smith and Lennon Davis, who all lovingly knew him as Pop J; his dad Ronnie (Wilma) Smith; his sister, Whitney (Frank) Mieseler, sister in law Melissa (Michael) Tate, his nieces Addison Tate, Lilah, Izzy, and Skylar Mieseler, and nephew Evan Mieseler; his brother Chris (Angela) Smith, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him deeply.

Jason is preceded in death by his beloved Granny, Mona Evelyn Smith and Papaw, Lee Smith; his mother, Linda Patterson; step mom, Janice Smith; cousin, Shane Smith; aunt, Marilyn Smith; and uncle, Michael Smith.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday April 1st from 11-1pm at Companion Funeral Home located at 2412 Georgetown Rd. NW Cleveland, TN. A celebration of life service will begin at 1pm with Pastor Steve Ross officiating.

Graveside service is to follow and will be held at Boanerges Baptist Church in Old Fort, TN with pallbearers Matt Rowland, Bill Brock, Gene Chastain, Randy Croft, Frank Mieseler and Jason Nicholas.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Jason or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com.