Charles “Chuck" William Smith, 72, passed away of natural causes in Zephyrhills, Florida. He spent most of his adult life in Florida, a place he made home after his early years in the Northeast.

Born on December 22, 1952, on Staten Island, Charlie was the youngest child of George William Smith and Zelmarie Garrod. He graduated high school in 1970 from North Plainfield High School and went on to build a life centered around the things that brought him joy: his family, his beloved cars, and the Florida sunshine.

Chuck spent many years working in entertainment, including as a lighting technician for Disney, a place that captured his imagination and matched his eye for detail and storytelling. Friends and family knew him as someone who could recall any memory with perfect clarity, and who was always ready to share a story, especially if it involved cars. His passion for automobiles was unmatched: Charlie owned more than 75 cars over the course of his life, with a special affection for Mustangs, Camaros, and the wide-open nostalgia of Route 66.

In his retirement, Charlie devoted much of his time to collecting die-cast cars, especially Hot Wheels, a hobby that brought him immense joy and became a true labor of love. He was also deeply compassionate, with a strong dedication to caring for seniors. Charlie lovingly supported family members, including his Uncle Ray and his brother, and volunteered through the local hospice thrift store in his community — quietly giving his time and care to others.

Though he never married, Chuck devoted himself fully to the people he loved. He was preceded in death by his brother Richard George Smith and his sister Carol Ann Weaver. He is survived by his niece Kelley Leigh Smith of Union Beach, New Jersey; his nephew Timothy Richard Smith of Coral Springs, Florida, along with Tim’s wife Pam and their daughters Alyssa, Courtney, and Grace, with whom “Uncle Charlie” shared an especially close bond. He is also survived by his nephew Brian Weaver and wife Cynthia of Washington, D.C., and their children, Noelle and Oslo.

Chuck will be remembered for his generous heart, sharp memory, and the joy he found in simple pleasures — a good story, a good drive, and the people who meant the world to him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/charles-william-smith/obituary/

Copy