Eric Smith

Eric Joel Smith passed away February 6th, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. A Memorial Gathering will be held Friday, February 17th, 2023 at Webb & Stephens Downtown in Meridian, Mississippi to celebrate and remember his life.

Eric was born in Jackson, Mississippi in 1985 and grew up in Meridian, where he was known and loved by many. He enjoyed exploring new cities throughout the Southeast where he called home, such as Tupelo, New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville. Along the way, he learned many culinary skills valuable to the restaurant industry and was considered a good chef, server, and bartender. He had worked at Coco’s Italian Market and Restaurant in West Nashville, where his co-workers remember him as a genuinely warm and caring person with an amazing personality and perpetual smile. At the end of every shift, Eric and his coworkers would take turns playing their favorite rock songs and dancing.

Music meant the world to Eric, a talented songwriter and musician who enjoyed singing karaoke and playing many instruments with drums being his favorite. He had a flair for shopping in thrift stores and finding unique clothing that matched his personality and musical taste. Eric also expressed his creativity through art. His paintings ranged from socially shocking to deeply moving and beautiful, much like his personality.

Eric loved being the center of attention, with his quick wit, cleverness, and ability to speak articulately on many subjects he was highly intelligent. Eric's love for his son Cohen was second to none. Many friends considered Eric a brother, because he was always there for them, checking in, trying to cheer them up, and making them laugh.

He is survived by his beloved son Cohen, his mother Gina, his stepfather Dee and his sisters Sunny and Angie. Eric leaves behind his cats, Benadryl and Mr. Darcy. He also leaves behind scores of people whose lives were touched by his uniqueness, compassion, and love.