Wendell Fredrick Smith

Wendell Fredrick Smith, 71 of Toney, passed away peacefully May 4, 2025. He is preceded in death by his wife, Charlene Sanders Smith; father, Winston T. Smith and stepfather, Jim Patrick.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 14 years, Sandra Smith; mother, Reba Sharp Patrick; son, Stanley Smith (Kaitlyn); daughter, Melody Putman (Michael); grandchildren, Jaret Putman (Breanna), Emily, Gracie and Allie Putman; Dallas Smith and Hannah Smith, Bella and Rose Smith; great grandchildren, Oakley, Owen and Oliver Putman, Harper Fennell and Amelia Smith. Bonus children; Misty Wheeler (Eric), Dustin Green (Candace), Melissa Neal (Ethan); bonus grandchildren, Noah, Alexis and Tanner Wheeler, Hunter and Fisher Green, Kynnedi and Maci Neal; three brothers, Tim Smith (Sherry), Mike Patrick (Wendy) and Doug Patrick (Tammy); sister, Sandra Smith Darley (Tim); mother in law, Wanda Mason; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Wendell graduated in 1973 from Franklin County High School, Winchester, TN. He then married his first wife, Charlene, they had a good life together and raised their two children. Later in life, after she passed, he married Sandra and loved her very much. She was an answered prayer. He was an active member of William’s Cove Holiness Church for over 42 years. He loved the Lord and loved church. He enjoyed visiting churches and sitting with friends and loved ones telling funny stories and reminiscing about old times.

He earned a living for his family truck driving for many years travelling all over the United States. He also worked by farming at times. He loved Paint Rock Valley. It was his home for many years. He earned the nickname “Possum” at an early age. It followed him all through the years and he used it as his CB handle on the road. He was known also for his love of eating. He really had a fondness for Little Debbie’s. Wendell was loved dearly, and all the love was truly shown during his final days. Friends and family gathered together to be with him and with this he knew he was surely blessed.

Visitation will be held at William’s Cove Holiness Church on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 11:00am to 1:00pm. Funeral service will commence at 1:00pm with Bro. David Kittrell, Bro. Dustin Paradise, Bro. Ryan Neal, Bro. Royce Estes and Bro. Dale Cantrell officiating.

Interment will immediately follow at Clay Cemetery in Princeton, Alabama.