Charles Edward Smith, Sr.

Charles Edward Smith, Sr., a steadfast presence in the community of Vicksburg, Mississippi, departed this world on August 12, 2024. Born on July 5, 1934, in the same cherished town where he built his life, Charles was a testament to hard work, dedication, and an spirit. He was known not only for professional accomplishments but also for the love and support he lavished upon his family and friends.

A proud graduate of Bowman High School, Charles ventured into the workforce and found his place at Westinghouse. His career there spanned countless years, culminating in a retirement that did not dim his enthusiasm for service. Instead, Charles took immense pride in his post-retirement endeavors, turning his energy toward beautifying the landscapes and yards throughout the Vicksburg community. His hands shaped not only the earth but also the hearts of those around him, as he transformed mere patches of land into vibrant, welcoming sanctuaries.

A devoted family man, Charles cultivated a legacy rich in values and life lessons. His children, Charles E. Smith, Jr. (Michele), Jacqueline S. Caldwell (Matthew), Michael K. Smith (Sandra), and Rodney W. Smith, Sr. (Shirley), carry forward the teachings he imparted—skills essential for survival and the ethics of hard work, paired with the importance of community support. Charles was also a loving stepfather to Joseph Harris (Donna), Lawrence Harris (Carolyn), and James Betts (Deborah), whose memories he cherished deeply.

Beyond his immediate family, Charles's presence will be profoundly missed by his siblings, Isaac “Duke” Smith, Jr. (Dorothy) and Delores T. Smith, as well as by his beloved grandchildren: Tyrone, Damaris, Amanda, Gina, Kimberly, LaShonda, Michael Jr., Byron, Leslie, and Rodney, Jr. His joyous legacy extends even further to a number of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom carry a piece of his warmth in their hearts. The echo of his laughter and the wisdom of his words will reverberate through them and the larger echelons of family and friends, including the cherished members of the Shady Grove Baptist Church family.

At Shady Grove Baptist Church, where Charles served faithfully as a deacon, he found purpose and fellowship. His commitment to starting God's business on time was emblematic of his character—reliable, punctual, and ever-committed. Sundays were made richer by his participation in Sunday School and Bible Class, where he nurtured not just his faith but also the faith of those around him.

Charles has now reunited with his beloved wives, Clara Sims Smith and Delores Thompson-Smith, as well as his parents, Isaac and Aurella Franklin Smith. He is also predeceased by his brother, Benjamin Smith, Sr.; sister, Artimease S. Little; step-sister, Maggie S. Vernon; and a daughter-in-law, Cozetta J. Smith. Though their absence leaves a void, the memories they forged together remain a timeless tribute to his life.

The family invites all who wish to honor Charles’s remarkable life to gather for a visitation at C J Williams Mortuary Center in Vicksburg on August 16, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This will be followed by a funeral service at Shady Grove Baptist Church on August 17, 2024, starting at 11:00 AM.

Charles Edward Smith, Sr. was a man whose life was a mosaic of dedication, love, and service. He leaves behind a community that reflects his labor of love and a legacy that will flourish in the hearts of all who knew him. His spirit will endure, carried onward by those whose lives were enriched by his presence.