George Alford Smith

George Smith, a humble, loyal, and quietly remarkable man, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 4, 1937, George lived a life defined by honesty, dedication, and quiet strength. He never sought the spotlight, but those who knew him will remember a man of unwavering integrity, dry wit, and deep compassion. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Graham Smith and Annie Eanes Smith; his sister Margaret Smith Keller and brother J.G. Smith; and his beloved daughter Lori Smith Sykes and her husband Tracy Sykes. George is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 65 years, Marion; his daughter Jamie Smith Nyland; grandchildren Ashley Nyland, Kaitlin Nyland Beard (Josh Beard), and Justin Sykes; and six cherished great-grandchildren: Lorilei, Roxy, Traci, and Wren Sykes, and Jade and Tate Beard; and son-in-law Tom Nyland. He is also survived by his loving sisters, Nelli Smith Sutton, Ethel Smith, and Patricia Hyatt. A man of few words but boundless heart, George lived simply and purposefully. He had a natural gift for storytelling, often sprinkling his tales with quick wit and wisdom. He treated every stranger as a friend and every friend as family. George served his country for six years in the Army National Guard and dedicated 33 years of his professional life to Thurston Motor Lines. His work ethic and quiet excellence earned him the admiration of both peers and leadership. Among his many accolades were being named Driver of the Month by Thurston Motor Lines in 1985 and by the N.C. Trucking Association in 1986, as well as receiving the 20 Consecutive Years of Safe Driving Award-a testament to his reliability and commitment to safety. Above all, George adored his family. His life's purpose was to make the world better for those he loved, and his great-grandchildren were truly the light of his life. He faced every challenge with strength and grace, never hesitating to lend a hand-always giving, never asking for anything in return. George Smith will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness, humility, and unwavering love of family will live on in all who were lucky enough to know him. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm on Monday, August 18, 2025. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm at Apex Baptist Church(https://www.apexbaptist.org), 110 S. Salem Street, Apex, NC. Burial will follow at Wake Memorial Park, Cary, NC. The family sends a special thanks to the hospice care team for their kindness and support during a difficult time. Flowers are welcome. Those considering memorial contributions may make them to [Transitions LifeCare](https://www.transitionslifecare.org), 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.