Ernest Marvin Smith, 105, of Morganton, NC passed from this life on February 4, 2025, after a period of declining health. Ernest was preceded in death by his wife, Velva; sons, Hubert Ray Smith and Ernest Marvin Smith Jr.; granddaughters, Miranda and Christy Denton; grandson, Jason Denton; brothers, Horace, Garfield, and Gravis; sister, Grace Chapman; parents, Tull and Elizabeth Smith.
He is survived by his daughters, Pat Denton and Hazel Williamson; daughter-in-law, Billie Smith; granddaughters, Kim Sparks, Pam Baldwin (Tim); great-grandchildren, Zachary (Tylyn) and Justin Sparks, Sara and Maddie Baldwin; brothers, Richard and Foy Smith; sisters, Ruby Carswell (Arthur) and Pauline Berry; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Ernest was a devout Christian and dedicated his life to Christian service to family, friends and community. He was a lifetime active member of Southside Baptist Church (now Mission Church) in Morganton, NC. Ernest loved nature, outdoor hobbies and activities, walking and spending time with his family. He was a proud World War II Navy veteran and served in the South Pacific during the war. He was recognized and celebrated by various military and community groups for his service and for being one of the oldest surviving WWII veterans. Ernest will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
The family will receive friends from 1pm to 2pm on Monday, February 10, 2025 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The family requests that attendees please wear a mask. The funeral service will begin at 2pm in the Chapel of the funeral home with Rev. Lawrence Robertson and Pastor Billy Glosson officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. Military honors will be provided by the United States Navy and the Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd, Suite B, Newton, NC 28658 or to Carolina Caring, 7473 Sherrills Ford Rd. Suite A, Sherrills Ford, NC 28673.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Pat and Hazel, you are both in my thoughts. As your friend I wish you peace at this time. May your many memories of your Dad brighten coming days. I am sure you will miss him greatly. Although I didn’t know him, he must have been a great dad to raise the two of you.
a wonderful uncle, good christian man with great faith, took care of his family. Ernest demonstrated kindness and respect to all and a helping hand if needed.
condolences to you and your family.
We are sorry to learn of Mr. Smiths passing. Please accept our sincere condolences. We will keep the family in our prayers.
Hazel,Pat, and Billie, may it ease your sadness to know that your precious dad and father in law is with Jesus and his precious wife and sons. You will be reunited with him in Paradise. What a wonderful celebtation. PRAYERS AND HUGS, Phyllis Wilson
My deepest prayers and condolences to you, Hazel, and your precious family for the tremendous loss of such a legend. His legacy will carry on. Live in bright memories and showers of love that he gave to his family.
We are so sorry to hear of Ernest passing. He was very faithful to church and all members. Our praysers go out to the family. Susan Ingram, Joan Chappell, Doris White.
Ian truly sorry sweetheart. Your dad was a great man. I understand your heart hurts. My precious momma just passed. Blessings of comfort
Yet another one of America’s Greatest Generation and heroes has gone on to his heavenly glory. Rest easy. Prayers and condolences extended to family and friends.