Charlie Fred “Pop” Smith
Charlie Fred “Pop” Smith of Monticello died June 18, 2012 at Jasper Memorial Hospital.
Mr. Smith was born December 17, 1935 to the late Fred and Hildred Campbell Smith in Monticello, being the second of four children.
As a young boy he attended Jasper County Training School. He graduated high school in 1952. “Pop” joined St. James A.M.E. Church at an early age, as a member he worked faithfully on many boards including Trustee Board, Steward Board and with the male chorus.
“Pop” was a man of many talents. He taught many young men in Monticello the skills needed in order to make an honest living. He taught skills such as carpentry, plumbing, masonry, and painting.
He could design, construct, repair and maintain any facility. He worked for King Plow, Blimpie, Georgia Pacific, Larry Lynch, Pizza Hut, Paul Holmes, Eugene Kelly, Circle K, Funderburg Park, and other projects. “Pop” was an avid fisherman, always looking for the “big one” at a private pond; he claimed to be “his own.”
He enjoyed traveling from the west coast of California to his most recent travels to the east coast of the Bahamas. His most honored hobby was gardening. He’s planted plenty of vegetables in his garden, dared anyone to trespass, but was willing to share. Anyone can drive by and see his love of roses, which drape the driveway.
He enjoyed nature by looking at it, which explained his love of fishing.
Survivors include his wife of 38 years, Cynthia Smith; four sons, Charlie Clayton Smith of Greenville, S.C., Anthony J. Smith and Daniel Smith, both of Monticello and Lt. Col. Thomas Perry of Fort Hood, TX; two daughters, Mattie Stodghill of Monticello and Christy McCullough of Douglasville; seven grandchildren, Brandon, Dane, Janee, Jessica, Dondre, Anthony, and Laiani; a sister, Barbara Louise James; a brother, Walter E. Smith, both of Monticello; step-mother, Eunice L. Smith of Eatonton; also a special fishing friend, Otis Goolsby and many other relatives and friends.
“Pop” was preceded in death by his father, mother, sister, Edna, and daughter, Monica Vanessa.
A celebration of his life was held Saturday, June 23, 2012 at St. James A.M.E. Church, 514 Funderburg Drive, Monticello. Interment was in Smith-Jordan Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, interested persons are asked to make a donation to the American Cancer Society at either local bank—Bank of Monticello or Hamilton State Bank.