Howard W. Smith, 93, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, in Cornelius, North Carolina.

Born on January 29, 1932, in High Point, North Carolina, Howard lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, dedication, friendship, and joy.

He was one of nine children and was raised on a working farm, where they grew tobacco and other row crops, and meat and milk for their own consumption. At an early age, he learned the value of “a full day’s work” while also caring for the animals that helped maintain the farm and provided for the family. After high school, Howard joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his county during the Korean conflict.

After his military service, Howard pursued higher education at NC State University, where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering. His professional journey reflected his strong work ethic and technical expertise. He contributed significantly to several respected organizations throughout his career, including Piedmont Northern Railroad, Ralph Whitehead and Associates, and Duke Energy. After retirement, he and two other friends formed a small Land Surveying company to continue serving in a professional capacity and help other organizations in need. He enjoyed staying current through numerous continuing education courses and took considerable pride in maintaining his professional licensure every year.

Howard was deeply rooted in his Christian faith and was devoted to serving his Lord. He was a long-time member of Carmel Baptist Church and served as an usher, and a deacon for most of his adult life. More recently, he joined the congregation at Lake Norman Baptist Church, to continue serving a little closer to home.

Those who knew Howard remember him as kind-hearted, generous with his time, loving toward those around him, proud of his accomplishments, supportive of his friends and family, and always chipper—never one to meet a stranger. His warmth left an impression wherever he went.

He found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed gardening, taking care of his flowers, traveling, reading and the big 3 – basketball, baseball, and football. In the early years, he was the best horse show groom for his daughter, Robin, at her numerous competitions, and quickly became everyone’s favorite “horse show Dad” - always handy with a bit wipe, boot polish, or a quick sip of water at ring side. He was an avid golfer with a deep love for the game. After retirement, he joined Cowan’s Ford County Club and could usually be found on the course five out of six days of the week. Howard also loved shag dancing. This was a favorite pastime that paired perfectly with his appreciation for Big Band music. These many activities brought him happiness and connected him with many dear friends over the years.

Howard is survived by his daughter, Robin Smith; his sisters, Dorothy (Dot) S. Canada, Glinna S. Bryant, and Evva S. Spurgeon (Charles), along with numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He is also survived by his former wife, Susan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hampton and Minnie Smith; his siblings, Clyde Smith, Baxter Smith, Richard Smith, Clata S. Handy, and an infant brother; and his longtime dancing partner and loving companion, Martha Baker.

Howard loved his Lord, his daughter, the NC State Wolfpack, golf, his tomato plants, Butter Pecan and Black Cherry ice cream, and never met a food group he did not like. His presence will be missed but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. May the fond memories of Howard bring comfort to those whose lives he touched and serve as a reminder of a life well lived.

Memorial donations may be made to Carmel Baptist Church, Lake Norman Baptist Church, the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine All Creatures Great and Small Fund, or the NC State University College of Engineering.

A Celebration of Life is planned for later this summer to honor Howard’s memory and the joy he brought to all who knew him.

“Do your best, get a good night’s sleep, and remember, tomorrow is brand new day.”

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