Clyde Ervin Smith, Sr., age 91

Clyde Ervin Smith, Sr., age 91 of Forest City passed away Saturday, June 23, 2018.

He was born August 20, 1926 in Rutherford County and was a son of the late Major and Bertha Melton Smith.

Clyde was a veteran of World War II serving in the Pacific Theater and retired from the Rutherford County School System with 33 years of service. He taught at Harris High School, and was the Principal at Oakland Elementary, Alexander Mills, Cool Springs and Mount Vernon schools. He was also a member of Spencer Baptist Church in Spindale.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Gail Bumgarner, son Clyde Smith, Jr. one granddaughter, sisters, Ruth Roper, Blanche Brock, brothers, Oliver, Eldon, James, and half-brother Mack.

Survivors include his wife of 73 years, Jean Jones Smith, daughters, Sandra Norris and husband David, Lisa Moir and husband Ron, a son, Mike Smith and wife Arlene, sister-in-law, Linda Smith, sister, Corene McDaniel, half-sister, Doris Elliott, half-brothers, Dewey, Harold, J.B., Morris and Clay Smith. There are also 9 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

The funeral service was held at Spencer Baptist Church. Rev Bruce Caldwell, Ken Brock, and Wesley Smith officiated. Interment followed in the Eternal Hills Memorial Park with military honors accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.