Charles “Charley” Gary Smith, 73, passed from this life on January 9, 2017 at his home in Tryon, Oklahoma. He was born to Harley and Loretta Faye Smith on May 19, 1943 in Phoenix, Arizona.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carolyn (Carter) Smith of Tryon, their four children; a son, Charles “Chuck” Smith II and his wife, Angela of Perkins; three daughters, Jeanie Smith of Perkins, Stacy Raffety of Stillwater, Sara Grider and her husband, Brent of Perkins; ten grandchildren, Andrea McBride; Stephanie Ripley and her husband, Dustin; Brandon, Dillan, and Brooklyn Grider; Billy and Amy Raffety; Ally, Lizzie, and Garrett Smith; two great-grandchildren, Bryson and Nicholas Ripley; a brother, Terry Smith of Tryon; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by parents, Harley and Loretta Faye Smith; four sisters, Norma Saulsberry, Janice Thomas, Shirley Clayborn, Anita Hall; a brother, Harley Smith II; brothers-in-law, Glen Saulsberry, Doug Thomas; sister-in-law, Wanda Smith.
Charley was a retired mechanic. His career began at the age of 12 years old, when he was hired as an auto mechanic for Kincade’s garage in Stillwater. From 1967-1970, Charley served in the Army. He was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska and worked as a combat engineer. Soon, after being discharged from the Army, he met and married the love of his life, Carolyn Sue Carter. During the beginning of their marriage, the young couple lived in Prague, Oklahoma. In 1973, Charley, Carolyn, and their children; Jeanie, Chuck, and Stacy moved to Tryon, Oklahoma. Charley and Carolyn opened an auto-repair shop shortly after moving to Tryon. Charley and Carolyn worked hard for many years supporting their children. When he wasn’t working Charley enjoyed spending time with his wife and family, swimming, fishing, camping, and working on old cars. Charley was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and a great friend to many that knew him. He will be dearly missed by all.
Services will be held at the Christian Union Church in Tryon, Oklahoma on Wednesday, January 18th at 2:00 pm. Condolences can be sent to 4092 W Hwy 105, Tryon, Oklahoma 74875. Remembrances may be shared online at www.stittsworthfuneralservices.com.
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