Tommy Lee Smith was born on January 15, 1943, in Aliceville, Alabama. He was the third child of Payton Sr. and Lelia Smith. Tommy went to be with his Lord and Savior on July 5, 2026 at his resident.
Tommy graduated from R.J. Kirksey High School. After graduation, he moved to New York, where he married and, from that union, five children were born. He later relocated to Dallas, Texas, where he worked for the Dallas Transit System for approximately 25 years.
On June 20, 1987, he married Brenda Hampton. They made their home in DeSoto, Texas. Tommy joined Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Karry D. Wesley. In 2006, they moved to Atlanta, Texas, where he became a member of First Baptist Church. He faithfully served as a member of the Trustee Board.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Payton Sr. and Lelia Smith; his brothers, Payton Smith Jr. and J.D. Smith; and his sister, Yvonne Smith.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM at First Baptist Church, located at 205 W. Allday / John Street in Atlanta, Texas, with Pastor Dr. Jonathan Stanmore officiating. Viewing will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Coleman-Atlanta Funeral Home.
He leaves to cherish his memories: his devoted and beloved wife,Brenda Smith; three sons, Anthony Smith (fiancée Susan P.), Charles Smith, and Thomas (Keisha) Smith; two stepsons, Bryant Keith (Sunday) Birmingham and Brandon (Passion) Hampton; two daughters, Lelia (James) Thornton and Aletha (Owen) Graham; twelve grandchildren; nine step-grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two step-great-grandchildren; one brother, Harold (Evelyn) Smith; two sisters, Betty Richburg and Prenetha (James) Smith Barbour; sisters-in-law, Carolyn L. Smith, Sheila Birmingham, Shirley Birmingham, Vickie Birmingham, and Gwen Davenport; brother-in-law, Rickie Birmingham; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.