Obituary of Gregg Lamont Smith Jr.

I have come that they may have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10) Gregg Lamont Smith Jr., 46 years old, transitioned on January 3, 2025. Born on October 18, 1978, in Chester, Pennsylvania, Gregg relocated to Wilkes-Barre, PA and was the eldest child of two siblings. Gregg received his education at Heights Elementary School and the former G.A.R. Memorial Jr/Sr High School. His work experience included sales/marketing and warehousing professions. As a youth, Gregg enjoyed basketball, baseball, karate, football, track and field, fishing, nature hikes, gaming, spending quality time with his grandfather (Poppy), and other loved ones. He had a very inquisitive mind and often enjoyed writing and repairing bikes and electronics as a hobby. In his adult years, Gregg’s love for music, prayer, reading the Bible, and his relationship with God served as a grounding force for life transitions. Furthermore, Gregg's bond, connection, and loyalty to family would later inspire him to establish a legacy of love through the fruit of his children. When God opens a door, no one can close it. And when God closes it, no one can open it (Revelations 3:7) Gregg wasn’t one to claim perfection in any right, rather, he maintained a posture of authenticity. The fruit of his spirit demonstrated love, joy, peace, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance, humility, forgiveness, and patience towards others. In the face of personal loss, illness, and other hardships in life, God’s grace and favor over Gregg’s life is undeniable. Gregg entered this world defying doctors’ medical diagnosis and was the first miracle born to his mother. Furthermore, he would continue to serve as a miracle to his family by surviving 4 additional brushes with death before he was called home to rest. Trust in God with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge God, and God shall direct your paths. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Proverbs 3:5-7) Gregg’s favorite scripture came from the book of Proverbs (3:5-7), which served as a source of comfort to him during the uncertainties of life. With the empowerment of God, Gregg served as a beacon of grace, peace, hope, forgiveness, and compassion in this world. He was known for his quiet strength, raw love for God, and resolute ability to walk in faith. Gregg’s hearty laugh, contagious smile, and awesome spirit will be dearly missed by those who were closest to him and held great love for him in their hearts. Gregg was preceded in death by his father, Gregg L. Smith Sr., mother, Bernitta L. Makowski (Cobb), and son, Gregg L. Smith III. Gregg is survived by his five children: Makenzi, Bianca, Isaiah, and Giavanna, Ciara; three grandchildren: Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Alijah; two siblings, Bernitta and Tahij; and a host of loving extended family members, including aunts, uncles, and cousins. A message to the reader: Because Gregg lived, the world experienced Divine Provision. Because Gregg lived, the world experienced Divine Protection. Because Gregg lived, the world experienced The Divine’s Love. Because Gregg lived, it is our hope that your life has been inspired!