Fred Ray Smith, 88, of Oakdale Drive, Morganton, was welcomed into eternity Saturday, April 10, 2021. Fred was born in Robeson County, NC on Sept. 22, 1932, a son of the late Andrew Jesse and Levada (Owens) Smith.

He was also preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Evelyn Page Smith; 4 brothers, Albert, Clayton, Curtis, and Joseph Smith; and 4 sisters, Agnes Chautin,Clementine Martin, Earnesteen McLaurin, and Swannie Durden.

Surviving is one son, Freddy Smith of Granite Falls; two daughters, Malinda Fox of San Diego, California, and Jenny Curtis (John) of Dodge City, Kansas; one brother, Jesse "Buddy" Smith of Raeford; two sisters, Gladys Martinez of Parkton, and Mary Ikyasang of Fayetteville.  Also, to his joy and delight are four cherished grandchildren, Kaitlyn Brooke Hill (Spensor) of Washington, Christina of Wyoming, and John and Jane Curtis of Kansas.

Fred was a faithful, simple, and humble man who once served his countryin the US Army; a person of honest and honorable character…an exemplary image of fatherhood.  He enjoyed puzzles, building models, riding motorcycles, collector cars, Nascar, boating, and fishing.  Fred will best be remembered as a dedicated brother,father, grandad, and friend; he had an immense love for his family.  His hard work ethic allowed him to be a wonderful provider to those he loved throughout his lifetime.  He was well respected, a jack of all trades.  Fred cherished time with his grandchildren who were his pride and joy, creating lots of smiles and laughter. Fred was a friend to anyone who was fortunate enough to cross his path.

It is with much love that we will hold a Celebration of Life to honor our daddy at Cross Memorial Baptist Church fellowship center on Saturday, April 17 ^th .  The receiving of friends will be 2:30 – 3:30 with a brief memorial service following, officiated by Dr. Jeffery Beach. He will be laid to rest in Burke Memorial Park.