September 17, 92,
Russell Parks “Doc” Smith, 92, passed away Thursday, September 17, 2020 at his home surrounded by his family. Born in Wayne County on April 22, 1928, he was the son of the late Jasper and Eula Parks Smith. He was preceded in death on May 10, 2019 by his wife of 68 years, Hazel Joyce Worrell Smith. Doc proudly served his country in the United States Army.
Doc was a lover of the land and worked as a farmer in the Hood Swamp Community. He will be remembered by many for his love of being in the garden raising the best corn, potatoes, okra and watermelons. For many years he would sell the best produce to friends in the community. Many of his happiest times were spent atop his tractor on the family farm or at his favorite fishing hole. Doc was a member of Woods Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church and served as volunteer fireman with the Pinewood Fire Department.
A service to celebrate Doc’s life will be held Sunday, September 20, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. at Woods Grove Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church with Rev. Barry Teague officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall and at other times at the home. Burial will be Monday at 12:00 noon at Wayne Memorial Park.
Doc is survived by his daughters, Cindy Darden and husband, Al and Lisa Smith; sons, Russell Keith Smith and wife, Susan, Craig Smith and wife, Doris, and Kelvin Smith and wife, Tonya; eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one step-granddaughter; and two step-great-granddaughters. He is also survived by his sisters, Marjorie Rose Newsome and husband Linwood Earl and Barbara Jean Grant.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Sarah Elizabeth Smith Taylor, Genelle McCullen and Charlotte Johnson; and brother, Elwood Lee Smith.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be sent to Woods Grove PFWB Church, 4009 Central Heights Rd, Goldsboro, NC 27534.
The family would like to express their appreciation for the compassionate care provided by Christy Moye with Kindred Care. Love and heartfelt thanks is also expressed to his caregiver with Community Home Care and Hospice, Crystal Sutton.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
