Charles "Ricky " Smith

Charles Richard “Ricky” Smith, 68, was born January 14, 1958, in Red Springs, North Carolina, and passed away on July 13, 2026, at his home in Memphis, Tennessee, after a long illness. Ricky was a resident of Bartlett, Tennessee.

Ricky is survived by his spouse, best friend, and love of his life, Louise Bullington Hadley; his son, Drew Smith (Paige); two grandsons, Holden & Hayden Smith; his sister, Cynthia Smith (Thomas); and nieces and nephews, Heavenly Hope & Charity Faith Troublefield, Wendy Nicole Alexander, and Ra’shawn Jones, all of the St Paul’s area, along with a host of other friends and relatives.

Ricky was preceded in death by his parents, George Ray Smith and Pauline Bolden Smith of St Paul’s, North Carolina, and an older sister, Sandra Troublefield of St. Paul’s, North Carolina.

For approximately 30 years, Ricky worked as an Auto Technician at Cross Creek Lincoln Mercury in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He brought steady dedication to his work and was known for the kind of reliability that earns trust over time.

Ricky found deep enjoyment in the outdoors, especially horseback riding and camping with friends. Many weekends were spent in the Uwharrie National Forest, often alongside his very special friend, Jack Poltrock—days marked by companionship, open air, and the simple peace of being away from the rush of life.

Ricky also gave generously of his time as an Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop 344 in St Paul’s for over six years. He helped guide and counsel six boys as they achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, participating in Boards of Review, troop campouts, district campouts, and council activities—quiet, consistent service that left a lasting imprint on those he mentored.

In June, Ricky was awarded a 35-year medallion for 35 years of sobriety with Alcoholics Anonymous, a milestone reflecting perseverance, humility, and a life strengthened by commitment and hope.

A Celebratiion of Life will be held at McNeill Funeral Home, 319 West Broad Street, Saint Pauls, NC 28384.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers contributions in honor of Ricky to the National Kidney Foundation, the American Heart Association, or the American Diabetes Association.

Songs: Chris Stapleton, “Daddy Doesn’t Pray Anymore”; Vince Gill, “Go Rest High on That Mountain.”