Fred Smith, Sr.

Fred L. Smith Sr. passed away Sunday, August 14, 2022, at the age of 88, after a long and happy life. A life that was full of challenges, accomplishments, and most importantly, love.

Born on January 25, 1934, in Bedford, PA, Fred was the beloved son of Glenn L. Smith and Mary Atta Wertz Smith. He was the brother of Mary L. Smith, William B. Smith, Samuel E. Smith, and Robert R. Smith. Fred married Suzanna Truelove Smith and raised five loving children. He was a devoted husband, father, and proud veteran. He was full of light, love, and passion for his country.

Fred’s passion and service to his country began early. At the age of 18, directly out of high school, Fred enlisted in the Army. During his time in the military, Fred served two tours in Vietnam, was a member of the 7th Special Forces Group and the 82nd Airborne Division. Fred retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 of the 407th Supply and Service Battalion based in Fort Bragg, NC, in 1979.

Fred’s military experience was one of extraordinary valor. His service to his country was recognized with three Bronze Stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, a Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm Ribbon, the Legion of Merit, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and more.

However, as important as the military and his country were to Fred, his most enduring love was his family and his farm. The love of Fred’s life was his wife, Suzanna Truelove Smith. Their journey together included raising a beautiful family, fulfilling their dream of having their own farm, and spending their days enjoying each other’s company while tending to their crops and animals.

In addition to his wife of 60 years, Fred is survived by his daughter, Marcella Smith-Nieves (Americo) of Virginia Beach, VA, and his four sons, Fred L. Smith Jr. (Valerie) of Fayetteville, NC, Sandy S. Smith (Donna) of Wade, NC, Michael W. Smith (Sheila) of Parkton, NC, and Anthony W. Smith (Tammy) of Parkton, NC. Fred is also survived by two siblings, brother William Smith of Cary, NC, and sister, Mary L. Smith of Harrisburg, PA, 16 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

His life spanned nearly nine decades, and all who were fortunate enough to have met him are indelibly better for the experience.

What a legacy! What a life! Fred / Dad / Papa / Great-Papa, you will always be remembered, missed tremendously, loved eternally, and etched in our hearts forever.

In place of flowers, donations in Fred’s honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital would be greatly appreciated.