He was born April 23, 1932 in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina the son of the late Claude and Elsie Smith. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sarah T. Smith; daughter, Phylis E. Smith; and brothers, Eugene C. Smith and William K. Smith
Gerald served his country proudly in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict from 1950 until 1953. Following his service he worked for Burlington Industries, Western Auto Franchise in Erwin and finally followed his passion to Law Enforcement. Gerald retired in 2009 after a 30 year career with the Harnett County Sheriff Department, where he worked as a Captain, Criminal Investigator, Road Deputy and Chief Jailer. He was a graduate of both Campbell Junior College and the Atlantic Christian College where he earned his BSBA degree.
Gerald was a member of the Erwin Masonic Lodge since 1977 and volunteer with Erwin Fire and Rescue for four years. He was a devoted and loving father, grandfather, brother and friend.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Brenda J. Smith; Son, Glenn R. Smith; grandson, Justin Pope (Emily); granddaughter, Amber Sorrell (Joshua); five great grandchildren, Alexis, Cayden and Hadley Sorrell and Peyton and Garrison Pope; brothers, Claude E. Smith and Danny Smith.
The family will receive friends from 6:30 PM until 8:30 PM Friday, February 22, 2019 at Cromartie-Miller Funeral Home in Dunn. A funeral service will be held at 2 PM Saturday, February 23, 2019 Sansom Community Church 2896 Arrowhead Road in Dunn with Pastor Jerome Pope officiating. Interment will be at Greenwood Cemetery in Dunn, North Carolina.
Arrangements are in the care of Cromartie-Miller Funeral Home.
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