Harold Edward "Smitty" Smith

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Harold Edward Smith, lovingly known as "Smitty" to all who knew him, and who passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026. We give thanks for his wonderful life of 87 years and rejoice that he is in his heavenly place of peace and rest on this day.

Born on January 30, 1939, in Haywood County, he was the son of the late Edward "Ed" Smith and the late Gertrude Lovingood Smith. A proud 1957 graduate of Enka High School, Smitty went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1957 to 1961. His time in the US Navy remained a point of pride throughout his life, and Smitty carried that same sense of duty and dedication into everything he did throughout his life.

Smitty was a man of many talents- a gifted handyman and craftsman who could make anything and fix anything. His working career spanned 34 years at Champion International/Blue Ridge Paper, where he worked as an electrician and earned the respect of his fellow workers for his skill and work ethic.

Outside of work, Smitty found joy in spending time outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who treasured his time at Fontana Lake with his family and friends. He loved having a fishing pole in hand and being among the beauty of the mountains he loved.

Above all, Smitty will be remembered for his good and kind heart. He was a man of genuine kindness and always willing to reach out to anyone who might need a helping hand. He loved and cherished his family and he shall be missed each and every day.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother; his mother-in-law, Edith Capps, and several aunts and uncles.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 40 years, Patricia Capps Smith of Canton; daughters, Amy Smith of Franklin and Becky Ray ( Shawn) of Asheville; a step-son, Jason Carver of Campobello, SC ; 3 grandchildren; his pet dogs, "Katy" and "Darla"; also many dear friends.

A Celebration of Life Service to honor the life of Mr. Smith will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, February 20, 2026, in the chapel of Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.