Obituary of Charles Smith

Charles W. Smith Charles W. Smith, 73, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Saturday, June 6, 2009, at Lower Cape Fear Hospice in Wilmington, NC, of complications related to Alzheimer ?s disease. He was born October 30, 1935, at home in Charlotte, to the late Hoke and Mamie Layton Smith. A graduate of West Mecklenburg High School and Charlotte College, Charles was a Profession Engineer prior to retirement. He loved sailing and was a pilot most of his adult life. His family and friends have many wonderful memories of ?flying off with Charlie?, sailing Lake Norman and his humor that made many cherished stories. Charlie married Harriet Drake in 1957, starting the family that he loved and took such great pride in. The marriage produced three children and six grandchildren. The lessons of unconditional love he provided to his children and grandchildren help to sustain a strong and loving family, providing great joy in their lives. Charlie?s family was at his side during his long struggle. ?Granddaddy? will be greatly missed by his daughter Peggy Samz, her husband Fred their children Chase, Ellen and Kelly of Dallas, TX; his daughter Donna Overton, her husband Glenn their children Julia, Alyssa and Drake of Wilmington, NC; his son David C. Smith with his life partner Michael von Kampen of Myrtle Beach, SC. Charles is survived by four brothers and sisters and their families. Ben W. Smith and wife Elaine of Sarasota, FL; Rachel Smith of Charlotte; Guy H. Smith and wife Debbie of Tampa, FL; Joanne Gorman and husband Pat of Rochester, NY. The family will always hold Harriet (Mom) and Anne Tate in their hearts. The care, kindness and support they provided during many difficult years can never be repaid. Funeral service will be held Tuesday, June 9, 2009, at 2:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice & Life Care Center, 1406 Physicians Drive , Wilmington, NC. 28401.