Bruce Smith, "Smitty", "The Ice Cream Man" went home to be with the Lord on January 18 ^th , 2022, at the age of 72.  Born in Franklin, KY he spent his youth working paper routes and was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, earning the title of Eagle Scout.  As a young man, he loved traveling and settled in Hardee County, FL where he met and married his "old lady", Joann, in 1981.  They had just celebrated their 40 ^th wedding anniversary this past October.

"Smitty" was an active member of Immanuel Baptist Church and his community with most remembering him as "The Ice Cream Man" with the red and white truck.  "You never have to work a day in your life, if you love what you do" was what he believed and lived by.

He is survived by his wife, Joann Smith, his children, Billy Griffis, Jamie Jones, Christina Simpson, and Virginia Thompson.  He was blessed with 12 grandchildren who loved their "Papa".

A memorial service will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church, 210 East Broward, Bowling Green, FL on February 5, 2022, at 10:30am and will be open to all who would like to celebrate his home-going.

Online condolences can be made at pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes, Wauchula are in charge of the arrangements.