Perschon Tilton Smith, Sr., 77, of Archer and formerly of San Mateo, passed peacefully on Thursday, May 19, 2022, at North Florida Regional Medical Center in Gainesville surrounded by his family. Born in Palatka to Charles Harlen “Rabbit” Smith and Virginia Evelyn Tilton Smith, Perschon was a 1964 graduate of Palatka High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves where he served for 15 years. Perschon began working at Clay Electric Cooperative (15 years) then transitioned for 5 years in the maintenance department at North Florida Regional Medical Center and his last 8 years were at Santa Fe Community College where he was a grounds keeper until his retirement. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Perschon also served as a High School Football referee for 35 years. In addition to his love of his church and his family, Perschon collected antique tractors (International Harvesters) and dearly loved his Brahman Cows which he raised all his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 37 years, Mary Richburg Smith.
Perschon is survived by 3 sons, Steven Smith (Lynn Whitney-Smith) of Sanford, Perschon T. Smith, Jr. of Archer and Scott Corey Smith (Melissa) of Middleburg, 2 daughters, Dollie Wygant (Hayden) of Fort White and Dimitria Smith of Newberry, a brother, Fritchy Smith (Linda) of St. Augustine, 2 sisters, Rosanne Smith Carter of Flagler Beach and Vicky Corn (Larry) of San Mateo and 3 grandchildren, Camden Smith, Logan Smith and Lily Smotherman.
Graveside services will be at 10:00 A.M. Friday, May 27, 2022, at San Mateo Cemetery with Logan Smith offering the Eulogy. No visitation is scheduled.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Perschon’s Book of Memories page at www.johnsonoverturffunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.