March 11, 1954 — October 14, 2023
Michael Hillary Smith, 69, of Bladenboro, passed away at his home on Saturday, October 14, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur Smith Sr. and Lena Pait Smith; sister, Deborah Edwards; nephew, Wilton King; niece, Tammy King and sister-in-law, Lee F Turner.
Michael leaves behind his spouse, Sue Frink Smith; two daughters: Rebecca Smith Chavis (Billy) of Mebane, Claudia Smith (Kristy) of Fayetteville; brother, Wilbur Smith Jr. (Brenda) of Bladenboro; sisters: Sherrill Kinlaw (Craven) of Bladenboro, Ruby Paone (Martin) of Reston, VA; grandchild, Deanna Chavis of Mebane; step-grandchildren: Katie and Elise Long of Fayetteville.
Michael, a member of Galeed Baptist Church, lived life to the fullest, enjoying meeting people everywhere he went. He served his community by volunteering for the Bladenboro Rescue Squad, and his country in the National Guard.
Michael enjoyed all of the little things in life; camping, fishing, and occasionally looking for Bigfoot, especially at Morrow Mountain State Park. If not there, he was always prepared to negotiate bargains at “Silver Hill Deals.” But what always meant the most to him was his family.
The family will receive friends from 4-6pm on Sunday, October 15th at the Bladenboro Chapel-Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 2pm on October 16th at Galeed Baptist Church in Bladenboro with Reverend Brett Young, Reverend Chris Moore and David Smith officiating service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to SECU Family House at Novant Health or to the Galeed Baptist Church Youth Program 571 Galeed Church Road Bladenboro, NC 28320.
The love shown to him during his last days was an extraordinary celebration to remember.
The family would like to thank everyone for the numerous acts of kindness during the last several months. We cannot express our gratitude enough.