Elkin Mr. Joseph William Smith, age 76 of Elkin passed away Sunday June 18, 2006 surrounded by and in the loving arms of his family. Mr. Smith was born on May 16, 1930 to the late Arl and Florence Burcham Smith and was one of eight children. Preceding him in death was his beloved brothers James, John, and Bobby Smith and a dear sister Marie Southard. He leaves behind sisters Margaret Dimmitte and husband Bobby of Ronda, Arlene Johnson and husband David of Pinnacle, Judy Wiles and husband Dale of Elkin, and a brother David Smith of Zepher. Numerous nieces and nephews. Mr. Smith leaves behind a wife, children and grandchildren who always felt his deep and unconditional love. He leaves his wife of 53 years Georgia Absher Smith who he cared for until he could no longer. His children Shelia Smith Couch and husband Phil of State Road, Bobby Joe Smith and wife Sally of Pawleys Island, SC and Joseph Gregory Smith of Taylorsville. He also leaves behind six grandsons, who were his pride and joy; Sean Couch, Matthew Couch, Joel Smith, Zann Smith, Travis Smith and Blake Smith. Mr. Smith was a veteran of the United States Army and retired from Henderson and Wood Chevrolet in 1999 after 45 years of faithful service. Most of those years as body shop foreman. After his retirement, Mr. Smith spent his days doing what he enjoyed most; sharing his time and stories with family and friends and caring for his animals. Mr. Smith was reared in the Baptist faith and it was that strength that he and his family gained from it that sustained them over the last two years. In his last year Mr. Smith was blessed by knowing Rev. Russ Nixon who ministered to him and his wife. That ministry proved to be a special blessing to Mr. and Mrs. Smith and their children. Because of this special minister the family request that memorials be made to Cool Springs Baptist Church or the Animal Humane Society. A memorial service will be held Tuesday June 20, 2006 at 7:00 pm at Hodges Funeral Home Chapel by Rev. Stuart Roten. The family will receive friends following the memorial service. Online condolences may be made at www.hodgesfuneralhomeinc.com Hodges Funeral Home in Elkin is serving the Smith family.
