Thursday, July 31, 2014 8:11 am

Sam Smith, age 78, of Ellenboro, passed away Sunday, July 20, 2014.

Born January 5, 1936 in Rutherford County, he was a son of the late George Smith & Trudy Cochran Smith. He worked for the Burlington & Alexander Mills for many years & owned & operated Smith Hardwood Floors. He enjoyed traveling & watching his grandchildren play. Sam’s life’s work, passion & expertise was working on and finishing floors.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Mark Smith; 3 brothers, John, Bill & Henry Smith; 2 sisters, Betty “Bett” Aldridge & Mary Jane Smith Brock.

Survivors include his wife, Lillie McMurry Smith; 3 step-sons, Ronald Champion & wife, Latisha of Forest City, Jonathan Champion & wife, Tabatha of Harris & James Champion & wife, Dianna of Rutherfordton; 3 sisters, Kate Costner & husband, Grady of Kings Mountain, Evelyn Ludlum & husband, Jerry of Hamlet & Glenda Smith of Shelby.  He is survived by 8 grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted at the Harrelson Funeral Chapel. Interment followed in Eternal Hills Memorial Park. 

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family.