Charles Martin Smith
71, Monticello
A celebration of life service was held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, at Monticello United Methodist Church for Charles Martin Smith, 71, who died on Sunday, March 4, in Ridgeland. The minister officiating the service was Rev. Mike Evans with Dr. Joe A. Ward giving words of remembrance and Rev. Paul Smith, former pastor, delivering the sermon. Special music was provided by Rev. Tim Morrison and Amy Bacon. Visitation was held from 9 a.m. until the time of services of Wednesday, March 7, at Monticello United Methodist Church.
He was born on March 4, 1947, in Picayune, to Billy and Margaret Mitchell Smith. Charlie grew up in Picayune. He graduated from Picayune High School in 1965. After high school, he attended college at the University of Southern Mississippi where he received a degree in television and radio communications. He worked as district manager for TWL Stores and retired in 1999.
He was a member of Monticello United Methodist Church. He was a former member and deacon at Bethel Baptist Church. He had a passion for turkey hunting. He was actively involved in establishing the Lawrence County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation. He left a legacy to many young men as he passed along his knowledge of turkey hunting, fishing and his love of the outdoors. It made for lasting friendships and was one of his greatest pleasures.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Margaret Mitchell Smith, and first wife, Nancy Roberts Smith.
Survivors include his spouse, Annie Laurie Fortenberry Smith of Monticello, formerly of Columbia; daughters, Wendy Smith Hart of Monticello and Robin Smith Merle (Eric) of St. Louis, Mo.; his stepson, William C. Lawrence (Tonya) of Madison and grandchildren, Zoe Hart, Robert Hart, William Hart; William Merle, Beatrice Merle, Blaise Merle, Clementine Merle and Cameron Grace Lawrence.
Honorary pallbearers were Doug Duncan, Bobby Grubbs, Nick Farthing, Pete Mathews, Alan Moody and the Men’s Sunday School Class.
The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the nursing staff of Lawrence County Hospital and Hospice Ministries for their loving care and support.
Memorials on behalf of Charlie may be made to Monticello United Methodist Church.
