Murray Martin Smith

Murray Martin Smith, 95, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on April 25, 2026. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice Smith.

“Brother Marty,” as he was affectionately known, was born in Hialeah, Florida, the son of John Murray and Mabel Smith. He was a graduate of Miami Jackson High School. Following graduation, he was involved with the Salvation Army for several years. Marty continued his education at the University of Miami, the University of Hawaii, and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Before entering the ministry, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served two years of active duty and four years in the reserves.

On June 18, 1960, Marty married Janice in Atlanta, Georgia. They began their life together in Miami, Florida, where they served at Emmanuel Baptist Church for 11 years. Following his time in Miami, Marty and his family moved to Eustis, Florida, where he faithfully served Bay Street Baptist Church for 20 years.

After his formal retirement, Marty and Janice continued their ministry, serving international students at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee for 20 years.

He was an incredible father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and man of God. Marty loved sharing the Gospel and was devoted to God’s Word—reading, reflecting, and living it out daily. He loved in a steady, kind, and selfless way and was known as a faithful man of prayer. He faithfully pointed others toward a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, not only through his words, but through the way he lived each day. His life reflected the truth of Scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)

He took great joy in his family and was deeply proud of his children, Murray and Mary Catherine. He cherished watching Murray coach and was grateful to witness his induction into the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame. He also treasured time spent with Mary Catherine and her family, holding those moments close to his heart.

“Deda,” as he was lovingly called by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, was a nurturing and devoted grandfather. His love for them was deeply evident and only grew as the family expanded. He made each one feel seen, faithfully prayed for, and truly loved. It was especially important to him that they come to know and walk in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and he found great joy in seeing that lived out in their lives.

Marty is survived by his son, Murray A. Smith of West Palm Beach, Florida; his daughter, Mary Catherine Greene (John) of Cartersville, Georgia; four grandchildren, Lindsey Kurlander (Justin) of Tallahassee, Florida, Adam Greene of Tallahassee, Florida, Allison Greene of Tallahassee, Florida, and Austin Greene (Alyssa) of Greenville, South Carolina; and six great-grandchildren: Jake, Jett, and Tripp Kurlander, and Noah, Hayes, and Charlie Greene.

Our dad lived a life that clearly pointed to his Savior—a life full of love and kindness, and above all, faithfulness.

We grieve because we love him, but we rejoice in knowing he is at peace in the presence of Jesus Christ, whom he followed so faithfully.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee. A visitation will take place prior to the service at 10:00 a.m. A private burial will be held at the Tallahassee National Cemetery in Tallahassee, Florida. Arrangements are being handled by Faith Funeral Home and Crematory in Havana, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the International Ministry at First Baptist Church of Tallahassee.