Mr. Charles L. Smith, Sr. age 85 of Blue Ridge, passed away Sunday, May 20, 2018 at his home. Mr. Smith was born October 29, 1932 in Cloudland, GA to the late Charles W. Smith and the late Victoria Durham Smith. A member of the First Baptist Church of McCaysville, he was preceded in death by his parents and one son, David Timothy Smith, sisters, Myrtle Smith Helms, Louise Smith Smith, Sarah Smith Humphrey, Jewel Smith Wallace, and one brother, Willis B. Smith. Charles earned his Specialist Degree in education graduating from the University of Tennessee and was a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. Charles began his career as an agriculture teacher at West Fannin High School and worked in the education field for thirty years. In his spare time, Charles enjoyed looking at and fixing antique cars, small engine repair and working on his lawn. Staying true to his Alma mater, he was a loyal TN Vols fan - win or lose!
Survivors include wife of 58 years, Barbara Russell Smith, daughter, Joy Smith (Bill Voyles), son, Charles Len (Lori) Smith, Jr., one sister, Diane Smith Willingham, sister-in-law, Faye Smith, brother-in-law, Arthur Wallace and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at 5:00 pm at the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home with Rev. Matthew McDaniel officiating. Music provided by Austin Vest and Ralph Grice. Interment will follow in Crestlawn Cemetery. The gentlemen serving as Pallbearers will be Wayne Humphrey, Benny Humphrey, Jackie Humphrey, John Alex Smith, Jason Smith, John Smith and Michael Helms. Honorary pallbearers are the Crusaders Sunday School Class of the First Baptist Church of McCaysville, Junior Lawrence, Jimmy Patterson, Clarence Mason, Jr., Ronnie Kimsey, Cecil Davis, and Tommy Cook.
The family will receive friends at the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 23, 2018 from 3-5 pm before the service. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Fannin Christian Learning Center, www.fanninclc.com, 2324 East First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.
Arrangements entrusted to the Finch-Cochran Funeral Home of McCaysville, GA. You may send condolences to the family and sign the guest register at www.cochranfuneralhomes.com.