Captain Joel Hayward Smith, 76, devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather, passed away Friday, September 26, 2025, under the care of Hospice of South Georgia. A lifelong native of Jesup, Georgia, Joel graduated from Wayne County High School in 1968, where he was a member of the Yellow Jacket football team and fondly remembered by his classmates. He went on to pursue a distinguished 35-year career in law enforcement with City of Jesup Police Department, earning the rank of Captain before his retirement. Known for his compassion and fairness, Captain Smith embodied his belief that "we are our brother's keeper." During his career he was honored as Officer of the Year, cross-trained with EMS and fire services to become a Public Safety Officer, and served as a leader in the DARE program, guiding and mentoring the youth of Wayne County. A man of strong faith, Joel was a faithful member of Altamaha Baptist Church, attending regularly until his health declined. He lived his faith daily through kindness, service, and devotion to his community. Beyond his professional and spiritual life, Joel enjoyed fishing, working in the yard, studying history, engaging in thoughtful political discussions, and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and J.B. Smith, and his sister, Lynn Carter

Joel is survived by his devoted wife, Susan House Smith of Jesup; his son, James B. Smith (Jessica) of Eulonia; his daughters, Jolenda Cloer (David) of Midway, Georgia, and Sharon Smith of Phoenix, New York; and eleven cherished grandchildren; a brother, Tommy (Ginger) Smith of Jesup.  Captain Smith dedicated his life to the service of Wayne County and will be remembered as one of its most beloved citizens.

Memorial services will be held 5:00 p.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025 from Altamaha Baptist Church with Rev. Stanley Todd officiating.

Family will receive friends from 4:00-5:00 p.m. prior to services at the church.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.