John William 'J.W.' Highsmith, Jr.

Waynesville – Rev. John William “J.W.” Highsmith, Jr., 78, of Waynesville passed away early Sunday morning (May 16, 2021) at the Hospice of the Golden Isles in Brunswick after an extended illness.

Born in Ludowici, GA his parents were John William Highsmith, Sr. and Hazel Gordon Highsmith. He is also preceded in death by his wife, Angela Ellen Carr Highsmith; a grandson, Devin Ryan Johns; a brother and sister-in-law, Rev. Jimmy & Carolyn Highsmith; and a brother-in-law, Mike Aspinwall.

J.W. was a pipe fitter and of the Baptist faith. He loved baseball, going to the baseball fields and fishing.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, Brian & Bobbie Highsmith of Waynesville; 2 daughters and a son-in-law, Lisa & Claude Johns of Waynesville and Beverly Highsmith of Nahunta; 7 grandchildren and their spouses, Danielle & Tim Lentz, Derek & Chelsea Johns, Gant & Darryll Highsmith, Abigail Highsmith, Hali & Johnathon Murray, Cheyenne Trosper and Bentley Highsmith; 10 great grandchildren, Carter Lentz, Cayson Lentz, Camden Lentz, Annaleesa “Toots” Lentz, Jayce Ryan Johns, Liam Highsmith, Elijah Highsmith, Silas Herndon, Jaxtyn Johns and Huxton Bo Highsmith; brother and sister-in-law, Mike & Nancy Highsmith of Jesup; a sister, Marlene Aspinwall of Jesup; and also several nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.

Visitation will be held thirty minutes prior to the service Wednesday afternoon (May 19, 2021) from 1:30pm – 2pm at Frye Funeral Home, Nahunta.

A memorial service will be Wednesday afternoon (May 19, 2021) at 2pm at the chapel of Frye Funeral Home in Nahunta with Rev. Darrell Joiner officiating.

Due to COVID-19, we would like to ask all to please follow the rules for social distancing, also face mask are highly recommended at the service. Anyone who does not feel comfortable with attending the service the family would like you to know they understand and covet your prayers.

Arrangements are with Frye Funeral Home, Nahunta.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.fryefh.com.