Karl “Smoke” Smith

July 17, 2024, the gates of heaven opened as Karl Evans Smith peacefully returned home to the Lord. He was born on September 7, 1945, in Plainfield, New Jersey, to the late MSG. Marshall G. and Nora Lee Vance Smith, Karl was the eldest of six children. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Smith, one sister, Vann Smith, one daughter, Edith Cook, and one grandson, Martavious Cook.

Karl graduated Lee M. Wade High School and subsequently served in the military for 18 years, alongside his career at M & W Windows until retirement. He was recently inducted into the 

Lee M. Wade Hall of Fame for outstanding achievements in basketball. He was a devoted member of Truevine Missionary Baptist Church in Rocky Mount, VA. Karl cherished his faith deeply.

Known for his affectionate nature, Karl was a loving father and grandfather who delighted in spoiling his family. His interests included reading, watching real TV, westerns, and passionately following sports, particularly the Boston Celtics. He also enjoyed his daily outings to play his numbers.

Left to cherish his memory are his three sons: Rolando Smith of Union Hall, VA, Aaron (Brittany) Smith of Hardy, VA; Matthew Cook of Franklin County, VA, one daughter Zsa-Zsa Cook of Effort, PA; seven grandchildren D'Angelo Smith of Rocky Mount, VA, Alijah Richie of Bedford, VA; Aydan Smith of Hardy, VA; Porsha Cook of Alexandria, VA; Shawona Smith of Rocky Mount, VA; Samantha Clark of Allentown, PA; Alexis Smith of Monroe, NC; one brother Larry (Sandra) Smith of Rocky Mount, VA; three sisters, Toni Patterson of Roanoke, VA; Terrie Edwards and Renee Smith both of Rocky Mount, VA; one brother-in-law Peter (Henrietta) McHeimer of Union Hall, VA; one sister-in-law Nanny Helms of Glade Hill, VA; six- great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will all deeply miss him.