Charles Edward Smith

Charles Edward Smith was affectionately knowns as Charles, Chuck, Charlie, Deddy, Pops, and PawPaw, by his family and friends. Born in Muskegon, Michigan, Charles was the oldest child of 6 to the Late Malcom & Alice Smith. As Malcom and Alice were founding members of The Queen Esther Missionary Baptist Church, Charles was the first-born baby of the congregation.
He attended Muskegon Heights Public Schools, graduating from Muskegon Heights High School in the Class of 1966. He was a student athlete, playing on the varsity football and tennis teams; a great swimmer, and was known to water ski on Mona Lake with his family. Charles was blessed to have had 5 children; 4 girls, and 1 boy. He later attended Ferris State University and began working for S.D. Warren/Sappi Paper Company in Muskegon, Michigan while also assisting with deliveries and sales at his family's business, Smitty's Furniture. After 33 years of service, Charles retired to enjoy his life with his children and grandchildren.
Anyone who knew Charles knew of his love for cars and trucks. As an avid NASCAR fan, he enjoyed many trips to the Indianapolis 500 as well as other races throughout his life. Known for his quiet nature and fun-loving spirit, he could be easily recognized around town by his signature NASCAR jacket, Cowboy hat and boots. He especially loved watching/listening to old Westerns and his favorite tv show Judge Judy.
Charles married JoAn Walker in 2009 and they cared for one another over their 15-year union. They were happily married until his passing.
Charles accepted Christ at an early age and later became a dedicated servant, as a Deacon and Co-Chair of the Caring Committee. For many years, he and his wife, served communion to Queen Esther members who were home-bound, sick and in assisted living- facilities throughout the city. Additionally, he was named an Honorary Deacon at the Beulah Missionary Baptist Church where his son-in-law, James Williams serves as pastor.
Charles was preceded in death by two of his daughters, Marla P. Smith and Crystal M. Smith, parents, Malcom and Alice Smith, paternal and maternal grandparents, 13 aunts and uncles, special cousins Frank Johnson, Kelly Johnson, Deborah Turner, and his beloved friend and co-worker Erma Lee Seals.
Charles is survived by his loving wife, JoAn, along with his children, Tracey (James) Williams, Carla Smith, and Corey (Cheri) Smith of Muskegon, Michigan, stepchildren Stephen Walker, Eulaette Simmons, Tarran (Tammy) Walker, April Walker, and Kenja Ross. He leaves to cherish his memory, 28grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. He will be especially missed by his siblings, Vonda Smith, Dr. Pamela Smith and Phyllis Watts of Muskegon, Michigan; Lisa (Ishmail) Buckley of Denver, Colorado and Terence 'Bernard' (Chandra) Smith of Cincinnati, Ohio.