It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Charles Edward Smith, Jr., “Charlie.” Charlie died Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at home, with his loving family by his side. He was born October 19, 1942, in Savannah to the late Charles E. Smith, Sr., and Sarah Louise Ogilvie Smith.  He served in the United States Marine Corps and retired from the Air National Guard. Charlie was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. He was a member of the Zerubbabel Lodge, the York Rite Mason’s, and the Alee Temple, where he was a part of the Pirates’ Unit. He was also a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans.  After his retirement from the Air National Guard, he worked for several years for Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, where he made many friends all over Savannah.  

Surviving is his wife of 58 years, Elizabeth Ann Howard Smith, daughter Rebecca Stringfellow (Joseph Stringfellow), son, Charles E. Smith, III, “Eddie” (Sheridon Smith), two brothers, William H. "Bill" Smith (Talley), and Roy E. Smith (Sandi).  Also survived by his four grandchildren: Rebecca Danielle Wood, Julian Smith, Alan Wood (Kiania), Colin Sawyer (Deanna), four great-grandchildren, Annabelle, Abigail, Alice, Madison, and one on the way, Baby Jason, and several nieces and nephews. 

Charlie was the Patriarch, the rock of the family, not because of age, but because of his unwavering support for the ones he loved. He loved history, his coins, and his family deeply. Charlie never met a stranger. His openness and desire to connect with others was prominent. No matter what life threw his way, Charlie kept an unmatched sense of humor–ready to laugh, joke, and observe the silver linings of life, always. Charlie so often encouraged and reminded those around him to be kind and resilient. He was the mold for what it means to be a trustworthy man.

Charlie was a man who believed in the Lord, being there for his family, and working hard. He will always be remembered as the most reliable, loving, and family-oriented man. He will truly be missed beyond measure. 

The family wishes to give its deepest thanks and regards to Hospice Savannah, whose care and support was so appreciated during their time of need. 

The family also wishes to recognize Charlie’s wife, Ann Smith, for the intense dedication and care she gave for her husband over the last few years. She has served such a Godly role in doing so.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 5, 2026, at Fox & Weeks, Hodgson Chapel.  

The Funeral Service to honor his life will be 11:00 am., Monday, January 5, 2026, at Fox & Weeks, Hodgson Chapel. 

Burial will be 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville, GA. 

Remembrances may be made to Hospice Savannah, Alee Shriner’s Children' s Hospital, or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.