Perry D. Smith

My deepest condolences to Dr. Smiths family. I was a proud student of his during his last 2 years at ECU, my sophomore and junior years. Like others have said, he was not just a voice teacher, but a guide in life. He taught me many things about singing, but he also taught me how to truly care for your students. At the time I studied with him, I had no intention of being a teacher. Over a decade later, I am. I hope I am half the educator Dr. Smith was. The choir of angels just got the best Tenor

He will be dearly missed i really my talks with him.

Words cannot express the depth of gratitude I have for Perry's influence on my life. My family and I are Orthodox Christians because of Perry's faithfulness to share his faith with me during my voice lessons at ECU. Not only are my husband and I Orthodox, but our daughters, their husbands, and their children are all in the church. His voice lessons were amazing, and I grew as a singer; however, nothing compares to the legacy and imprint he left on our family, which will last for generations to come. May God reward him for his faithfulness. Memory eternal.

So very sorry for your loss. Dr. Smith was a wonderful voice professor and person. He gave wonderful guidance in my first year at ECU.

Rebecca Lewis (Morris)

Dr. Smith was my voice professor for most of my time at ECU and helped me to discover all the parts of my singing voice. He was not only a teacher but also an encourager. I thank him for sharing his knowledge with me and I hope to see him again in our Heavenly Father´s presence. May God be with his family and friends during this time of loss.

Perry honored us for several years as our choir director at Hooker Memorial Christian Church while he was on the faculty at ECU. I was blessed to sing in that choir and to call him friend. Our sympathy to his family.
Gene Owens

I adored Dr. Perry! He was my vocal instructor my senior year at ECU and not only did he help unlock parts of my instrument that eluded former teachers, he taught me to find love, light, and laughter in the everyday. He also introduced me to Fisherman's Friend the winter of 2002 and every time I purchase some, I think of him.

Perry Darden Smith was my voice teacher at ECU and was a total game changer for me. I loved him so much as he was of course more than just a teacher. He was my mentor and we both kept things real. I am so sad that he is gone and frankly, that sucks. That really sucks. God bless Perry and his family.

The passing of Perry Smith is so unbelievable. My most sincere condolences and heartfelt pain to Dr. Amy Gilreath, Perry´s partner for many, many years. My heart and thoughts go out to her.
Perry was a classmate of mine at Interlochen Arts Academy. His voice was beautiful and refined, but also full of strength.
My heart is with you, dear Amy.