Joseph Madison Smith, Ph.D., 90, passed away September 24, 2021.  A native of Ocilla, Georgia, having resided in Jacksonville, FL most of his life, he attended the local schools, graduating from Old Stanton Senior High School – Class of 1950.  Furthering his education, he attended Florida A & M University, where earned a Bachelor's  and Masters  degree.  Later, the Ed.S. degree and Ph.D. were both conferred at Florida State University.  As one of Duval County's Outstanding Educators, Dr. Smith was employed by the Duval County School Board as a  Teacher and Principal, having rendered over 36 years of dedicated service before retiring.  Other affiliations include being a member of Emanuel Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as a member of the Choir; Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.; Treasurer of the National Business League; Silver Life Member of the NAACP and member of the Sophisticated Gents. He was predeceased by his daughter, Sharon Smith.  Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Ada P. Richardson Smith; daughter, Ms. Nichelle Smith; nieces, nephew; godson, Carl Jackson (Connie); goddaughter, Staff Sgt. Katelyn Jones; a number of other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations are to be made to the American Red Cross and the Alzheimer's Association in care of : Joseph M. Smith, Ph.D.