Help Bring Johnny Hurst Home for Memorial

A dear friend and actually Asher’s stepmom, Jaime Smeltzer, contacted me Sunday about tragically losing her dad. My heart goes out to her and her extended family. Needless to say, he did not have life insurance, and the family is left to bear the burden of getting his remains back to Chattanooga from San Francisco, CA as well as the cost of cremation and a memorial service. The cost to get his remains back to Chattanooga, cremation, and a service is approximately $10,000.

Chattanooga Funeral Home in Eastridge will be handling the process. Donations can be made directly to them or through this GoFundMe page.

His name was Johnny Hurst, age 52. He is from Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Here is the message I got from his daughter, Jamie Smeltzer:

I have told as many family members and friends that I can think of right now. I am heartbroken and can’t even think straight. This doesn’t feel real.

My dad, John Hurst (Johnny), passed away over the weekend on Saturday night. I was not informed until yesterday evening when a medical examiner called me around 7 pm.

I had just talked to him Thursday and Friday and was expecting him to be at my house by today.

I’m going to leave details out and ask for privacy while our family grieves and arrangements are made. I will make a post when arrangements are final and I have the date and time.

This was very unexpected and tragic.

My dad was so kind, generous, and funny. His grandchildren were his whole world, and he was the best Papaw.

My dad was very strong in his faith, and I know with certainty that he is in Heaven with his parents, other family members, and friends that have passed.

Please keep me, my brother, and our children in your prayers. Also, pray for his siblings and mine and my brother’s cousins. This is a very difficult time for us.

My dad was extremely loved and cared for, and it’s just not going to be the same without him.

Rest in Peace, Dad

Any amount will help and be very much appreciated! Let’s show this family some love as they navigate through this tragedy!

God bless you all and thank you in advance for your support and prayers!

Any one of us could be in this situation. We are never guaranteed tomorrow! Make today count!

Thanks so much,

Laura Henegar