W. Britton Smith, Jr

October 6, 1942 - January 25, 2024

Charlotte, North Carolina - W. Britton "Britt" Smith, Jr. passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 25, 2024. Britt was born in Wilson, NC on October 6, 1942. He was the son of W. Britton and Emily Walls Smith. Britt graduated from Harding High School, UNC-Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Business School in 1965, and UNC Law School in 1967.

Britt started his career as a trial attorney with the NLRB in Winston-Salem in 1967. He moved to Raleigh in 1972 where he became an original partner in the firm of Crisp, Bolch and Smith where he developed his concentration in the areas of employment, labor, and unique areas of corporate law affecting rural electric and telephone Cooperatives. Britt originated and taught NRECA's first courses on labor and employment law and was also the creator and first editor of NRECA's Personnel Practice Pointers, a newsletter covering human resource topics. After fifty years of practicing law, Britt retired as the senior partner of Smith and Christensen.

Britt loved quietly working behind the scenes in the community and for the benefit for his friends and family. Never one to seek recognition, he was passionate about many local causes and charities tied to economic mobility and healthy communities.

Predeceased by his parents and his sister, Virginia "Ginny" Smith, Britt leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Gwen C. Smith, daughters, Ashley Smith and Jennifer Parrish (Brian) of Charlotte and son, Matt Smith (Heather) of Apex. His adoring grandchildren are Sydney, Caroline, Campbell, Will and Sam.

Our family is grateful to the many friends and family who have supported us during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, Britt would be honored if you would make a gift in his memory to By Grace Alone Ministries, a non-profit organization close to our family's heart. https://bygracealoneministries.org/

Britt's ashes will be buried at UNC-Chapel Hill Memorial Grove at a private family ceremony at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Feb. 3, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for W. Smith

6 Entries

Sam Crane

March 16, 2024

Britt was a first cousin of mine on my mother's side. She and Britt's father were brother and sister. He was seven years older than me and I always looked up to him. When we would visit them or see him at our Uncle Johnnie and Aunt Dee's house, he would take the time for a game of catch with a little pip squeek like me or play wrestling.

Britt was a gracious, kind person. All of my memories of him are pleasant.

William F. Hamel, Retired

February 8, 2024

So sorry to hear about Britt. My condolences from all the Hamel lawyers. My condolences to Aaron who I worked with on many cases, with Britts help and input. Thanks for his life and prayers for the family. Bill Hamel

Tim Nicholls

February 7, 2024

Britt's Family.

Britt and I were classmates and close friends at UNC Law ('67). Though our paths rarely crossed after graduation, I've always fondly remembered Britt and our times together at Manning Hall. My sincere condolences and best wishes to each of you.

Tim Nicholls

Jonathan Harkavy

February 6, 2024

Britt and I had a number of cases in which we represented parties opposed to each other. Britt was always a worthy opponent, but more importantly, he exemplified the best of the legal profession in his approach to litigation. We thus became professional friends, too rare a benefit for most lawyers. May you find comfort in good memories of this exemplary person. Your family is in my thoughts.

Jarrod Brackett

February 3, 2024

Britt was a dear friend and encouraged our cooperative´s board and leadership through the years. He will be missed! His service allowed myself and others to see God at work through the legal profession.

Jarrod Brackett
General Manager/CEO

Connie Blythe

February 3, 2024

Dear Gwen, i’m so sorry about the loss of your dear sweet funny Britt. although it’s been many years, it still seems it was not too long ago. We had such fun together. I think of you often and hope you’re well. Sending love old friend.❤Connie Blythe

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