I was stunned to hear this, although I had been listening to Courtney's sermons recently (which I now find kind of odd), and he seemed to be deeply focusing on the spirit world and spiritual warfare.  So maybe he knew subconsciously he was going to be crossing over into the next life.  I don't know, very much me speculating.  

Courtney was a firebrand for sure.  I still hear his voice in my head from sermons at FLM, and even in calm moments his voice was high energy.  He was an interesting guy, extremely solid and full of conviction.   Someone who simply can't be shaken - exactly the kind of youth leader an 11-13 year old needs when life seems to be a tempest

I still think back to the culture of FLM in the late 80s and early 90s, and how strong the youth were.  One small but telling anecdote is when we were in the building on Broad St., and I was standing in the hallway about to head down the stairs to the parking lot, and one of the older kids chased down another one saying "hey man, you forgot your sword!".  He then proceeded to hand him a Bible.  

This guy was maybe 15?  And it was said without a hint of irony, or any sort of cynical humor.  It was good ground, good seed, and a very good spirit, and I still feel a deep kinship with everyone I know from that group.  

There were challenges with growing up in the Mighty Kids, the Warriors of the Son, and the Solid Rock Youth.  We were destined to never fit in due to that training we received.  The world's clothing simply didn't fit.  The world's path seemed incomplete, it's goals too shallow.  

We all were infused with the knowledge that we simply were not of this world.  And at times I chafed at that - I did want to fit in.  Now as an adult I'm extremely glad I was given that upbringing.  While everything seems to be shaking around us, we are indeed founded on the Rock, and while all seem to be at war, we are the Warriors of the Son.  

My husband and I feel blessed to have known Courtney and Bonnie for many, many years. Courtney was an advocate for God, Freedom and Country.... He willed be greatly missed! 

I met Courtney and Bonnie as a youth. They were my enthusiastic and compassionate youth leaders. Courtney left an eternal mark On my life for which I Will always be grateful. Prayers for Bonnie to be strengthened and comforted by the Lord's presence.

I remember his faithful service on the worship team and as youth pastor.  Can never forget how  Courtney stepped out of darkness into light and  his determination to live for the King of Kings.  His  ministry to people often neglected was a cornerstone for years in Highland Springs.  Blessings to Bonnie and all the flock at SW. 

My brother, we became friends many years ago. A friendship that left many blessings and memories. I never thought that you would get to heaven before me but the work that God had here on earth for you, you have completed and He has called you home for your rewards. I know we will meet again. 

Your brother in Christ,
David 

Courtney. This still seems so unbelievable. Thank you so much for everything that you and Bonnie instilled in so many of our lives growing up. You guys always made being a Christian fun and we were always laughing. I will continue to keep Bonnie lifted in prayers as I know this is hard for her. See you in heaven!

Shepherds Watch Ministries

He was preceded in death by his parents, Courtney S. Smith Jr. and Margaret E. Smith. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Bonnie S. Smith; stepmother, Joyce Smith; brother, David Bunting; sister, Donna Fary; and his cousin, Clark Jones.

OBITUARY

Courtney Clifford Smith, III

25 July, 1961 – 30 August, 2020

Nelsen Funeral Home & Crematory

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services