Mr. John Thomas Smith, 92, of Carrollton, passed away on Monday, November 24, 2009, following a brief illness. With his passing, Carroll County has lost a favorite son. Always known as "J.T." he was not only a loving husband, father and grandfather, but a prominent businessman, sports hero, and a proud and true Southern gentleman. He was preceded in death by his parents, John C. and Millie Edgeworth Smith; his devoted wife of 66 years, Ethel May Smith and a twin brother, Richard Franklin Smith (R.F.) The Smith twins together celebrated their 90th birthday, a year prior to R.F.'s death in 2008. For thirty-three years they operated Smitty's Automotive Service, a fixture in downtown Carrollton until the brother's retirement in 1987. J.T.'s long career in the automotive business also included employment by Folds Motor Company and Eaton Chakley, who owned a local dealership but is best known as the husband of film actress, Susan Hayward. J.T. Smith had a passion for sports which began at an early age. He was a Carrollton High School standout in basketball and he and his brother, also a player, delighted in confusing their opponents. J.T. was also a star in baseball and went on to play semi-professional ball with the East Newnan Industrial League. Mr. Smith was a long time member of Bethany Christian Church in which he held a number of positions over the years. Most recently he was a member of Miller's Academy Christian Church. He loved to garden, maintained a wide circle of friends, and never lost his love for sports becoming an enthusiastic armchair fan especially of the Atlanta Braves. He was committed to community service and in addition to the church he was a member of the Sand Hill Ruritan Club which he served as President. He was also a state level office holder in the Ruritan Club. A supporter of public education, he devoted much time as a trustee of Sand Hill School and President of the PTA. He is survived by his pride and joy, daughter Donna Smith Sanders of Carrollton. He had a very special relationship with grandson, E. Turner Sanders of Leadville, Colorado. Other family members include Gene Sanders, sisters-in-law, Audie Holcombe, Doris Shadrix, Jeanette Smith and a number of nieces, nephews and cousins. Arrangements for Mr. Smith are being conducted by Almon Funeral Home, 548 Newnan Street in Carrollton. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 27, 2009, at 2 p.m. at the chapel of Almon Funeral Home with Ministers Joey Mullins and Allen Howard officiating. The family will receive friends for a public viewing from noon to 2 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Bethany Christian Church Cemetery immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Carroll County Humane Society or favorite animal charity. Almon Funeral Home, Carrollton.