Craven Smith

Craven Monroe Smith, 80, of Polkton, formerly of Oakboro, went to his heavenly home Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Atrium Health Union in Monroe.

Craven was born July 4, 1942 in North Carolina to the late Willis Monroe Smith and the late Vassie Hatley Smith.
He was also preceded in death by son, Michael David Smith.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm - 2:45 pm, Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at Albemarle First Assembly. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 pm  officiated by Reverend Reggie Hinson and Pastor Nate Drye.  Burial will follow at Oakboro Cemetery at 1397 North Main Street, Oakboro.

Craven was a wonderful son, husband, father and grandfather.  He drove trucks for Lance for nearly 9 years and went on to become a welder and steel hanger for McGee Brothers Company for 20 years.  Craven enjoyed spending time tending to his garden, and in his youth, he spent time with his father in the logging business which led to him clearing out his woods so that he could ride his golf cart through them.  Craven married Mary Barbee, the love of his life, on July 1, 1961, and they enjoyed almost 62 years together.  He had a 1946 Chevy pickup which he enjoyed driving around and keeping in good condition even after he could not see well.  Craven loved the song "That's my King" in reference to God, who he now is blessed to be in the presence of for all eternity.

Survivors include wife, Mary Smith of Polkton, NC.; Daughter Alisha (Joel) Almond of Polkton, formerly of Oakboro; son, Jamie Smith of Oakboro; grandchildren, Heather (Anthony) Almond Hinson, Benjamin (fiancée Emily) Smith, Brandy (Ben) Almond Lambert.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to all the family and friends who prayed for him and for us for the past 8 months.  All those prayers helped us so much.  May God bless you all.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Midland is serving the Smith family.