Healthcare administrator Edward Jay Smith to be laid to rest in Lexington

EDWARD JAY SMITH, a healthcare administrator and former resident of New Orleans, passed away on September 27, 2025. He was 75.

EDWARD JAY SMITH

Born in Houston, Smith attended the University of Texas before coming to New Orleans to attend Tulane University, earning a Master’s degree in Health Administration.

He built a distinguished career in New Orleans as an executive director of major healthcare facilities, while also serving on numerous boards, driven by contributing to public health initiatives and sharing the teachings of his Jewish culture. His many honors included Life Fellow of the American College of Health Executives, Man of the Year from the Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans, the Mayor Marc H. Morial Award, and the Golden Hammer Award.

While living in New Orleans, Ed met the love of his life. He hadn his wife Betty shared a bond few are lucky enough to experience. They spent their many years together traveling, enjoying art and spending time with family, friends, and community. Through his wife, he embraced an instant family.

Recently, the couple moved to Atlanta to be closer to family members.

Predeceased by his wife of 25 years, Betty Straus Smith, on May 22, 2025 , he is survived by his stepdaughter Cindy Stein (Ryan), stepson Michael Kern (Abbi Hoiles) and two grandchildren.

Smith will be laid to rest in Lexington Cemetery, in Lexington, Kentucky at 1:30p.m. on Mon., Oct. 6, 2025.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life, the XLH Network, or a charity of your choice.