Elder Charles Leslie Smith, age 94, passed from this life to his life eternal on April 9th, 2026, at Autumn Care of Marshville.

Charles was born September 3rd, 1931, to the late Heyward Smith and Cora Lee Morrison Smith in Camden, South Carolina, where he was raised. As a teenager, he enjoyed playing sports, especially football. On July 28th, 1950, Charles married the love of his life, Dora Frances Boan Smith. They were blessed with 69 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2019. Together, Charles and Dora raised three children; Elliott Leslie Smith (Wanda) of Monroe, Robin Smith McCollum (Mark) of Monroe, and the late William Charles “Chuck” Smith. Following their children, Charles and Dora loved and spoiled five grandchildren; Tony Smith, Daniel Armstrong, Cindy Beaver, Emmy Craig (Adam), and Callie Helms (Casey). They also had nine great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and another arriving in June. Charles was very proud of his family and loved to share with others that he was old enough to have great-great grands.

One of Charles’ greatest joys in life was the call to preach. He began preaching when he was only 20 years old, dedicating 74 years to the ministry that God called him in to. Charles enjoyed nothing more than to study, teach, and discuss the Bible. He stood in the pulpit for the last time just three months ago. Charles’ daily walk with the Lord preached a powerful message of love, joy, and faith. His family, friends, and church family will cherish memories of his boisterous laughter, his inquisitive nature, and most of all, his love for the Lord.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Crooked Creek Primitive Baptist Church, 7918 Crooked Creek Church Rd. Monroe, NC 28110 with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00 AM until 10:45 AM at Crooked Creek Primitive Baptist Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service & Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112, is honored to be entrusted to care for the Smith Family.