Bobby Glenn Smith

Bobby Glenn Smith, 85, of Pink Hill, NC, passed away peacefully at home on December 16, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born in Deep Run, he was the youngest of three children of the late Woodrow Wilson Smith and Hilda Grace Smith. Bobby Glenn lived a full life, serving as a dad, granddaddy, great-granddaddy, uncle, friend, and proud veteran.

Bobby Glenn retired honorably from the United States Army in 1977 after twenty years of dedicated service, as a Field Artillery Sergeant First Class. He served two tours in Vietnam and was assigned to the distinguished 82nd Airborne Division in support of the 173rd Airborne Division. He carried immense pride in his service and the soldiers he served alongside.

Following his military career, Bobby Glenn continued working in the tobacco and grape industries and as a business owner, operating several bars in Raleigh, Garner, and Surf City. No matter where life took him, he never met a stranger-and he never passed up the chance to charm a pretty lady!

Bobby Glenn loved his family fiercely and was proud of every one of his children and grandchildren. Known for his generosity, he would gladly give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He cherished both his privacy and his tight-knit community. He was a dedicated member of the American Legion and VFW, where he served a term as VFW president. His community involvement even included a run for Mayor of Pink Hill.

To many, Bobby Glenn was affectionately known as "my best friend" or even "boyfriend," a reflection of the warmth, humor, and easy companionship he offered so freely. He leaves behind a legacy of military service, love, and unforgettable personality.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by, his sister, Mary Ella Howard, his brother in law, Houston Howard of Pink Hill; his brother Ernest Woodrow Smith of Willow Springs, NC; his former wife and mother of his 3 children, Mana Griffin of Raleigh, NC and his son Walter Smith of Wendell, NC.

Bobby Glenn is survived by his daughters Barbara Smith Ashley (Bob) of Wake Forest and Belinda Smith May (Danny) of Raleigh. 8 grandchildren: Jessica Gibson (Jesse), Summer Denton (Matthew), Amber Futrell (Mickey), Nikki Montalvan (Oso), Sean Ashley (Lucy), Justin Ashley, Chad May (Shelbi) and Dylan Johnson. He has 11 great grandchildren, 2 step great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful doctors, nurses, physical therapy, and occupational therapy teams at UNC Lenoir Health in Kinston, who provided Bobby Glenn with exceptional, loving care throughout his long hospital stay. They also wish to thank the compassionate staff of Gentiva Hospice for their support, comfort, and kindness during his final days. Special recognition is extended to Chilly Kennedy with Gentiva and Brandy Burd, at UNC Lenoir who he lovingly referred to as 'The Boss" and his girlfriend, for going above and beyond their duties for our Daddy. A special shout out to our Howard cousins for your support during this time. We love you all so much!

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 19, 2025 at Pink Hill Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 12-1 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Memorial Park in Pink Hill.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in his memory at Wounded Warrior Foundation at support.woundedwarriorsproject.org Checks can be mailed to: PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516