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Carl William Smith, Sr., age 101, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, July 14, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Carl was born in Beaufort County on August 15, 1922, son of the late James E. Smith and Pearlie Garris Smith.  He was a graduate of Bath High School and East Carolina Teachers College (now ECU).  On October 9, 1966, he married Geraldine Swanner Smith and immediately became a father to her three boys.  Three years later they welcomed a fourth son.

Carl was an educator for 36 years, most of these spent at Washington High School teaching U.S. History and later Distributive Education.  He was loved and respected by his students who recognized his desire to see them succeed.  Carl proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II.  After retirement he stayed busy with his yard work, church work and family.

Carl was a member of First Church of Christ in Washington, NC where he faithfully served as teacher, Superintendent of Sunday School, Deacon and Elder.  He and Gerry also had a special place in their hearts for the missions programs of the church.

Carl helped organize the Bunyan Ruritan Club and was the last surviving charter member.  He served multiple times as President, Vice President, District Governor and at Ruritan National.

Carl is survived by his wife Gerry, sons Gary Smith, Russell Smith and wife Denice and Carl Smith, Jr. and wife Christina.  Also surviving are his grandchildren Lane Smith (Amy), Laura Ennis (Derek), Emily Moore (Matt), Zach Smith, Olivia Riley (Jon) and Lydia Smith, and six great grandchildren Leo Smith, Eleanor and Adaline Ennis, Jackson and Hudson Moore and Jacob Riley.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by three sisters, five brothers and a son Bryan Smith.

The family received friends at First Church of Christ from 10:00 am until 11:00 am on Thursday, July 18, 2024, followed by the service at 11:00 am.  Ray West and Mike Waters officiated.  The burial was held at Pamlico Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be made to Roanoke Christian Camp, 389 Christian Service Camp Road, Washington, NC 27889.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.paulfuneralhome.com.

Paul Funeral Home has proudly served the Smith family since 1961.