Robert Lee Smith, age 75 of Franklin, NC, entered into the presence of the Lord on October 5, 2024. He was born April 25, 1949, in Clayton, GA, and grew up in Whiteside Cove in Cashiers. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Louetta; daughter Jenny; two sons, Jason (Sherry) and Justin; sister, Malina Fowler (Phil); grandchildren, Hope and Grant; and beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Cecil William Smith; mother, Edna Ethel Bumgarner Smith; two sisters, Mary Norris (Johnny) and Lydia Bryson (Don); and brother, Bill. He was of the Christian faith and worshiped at Cowee Baptist, where his son finally got to preach at him.

Robert loved, provided for, and was proud of his family. He and Louetta celebrated 51 years of marriage this past year, and she stood by his side with care throughout their lives together. He enjoyed telling about his family's accomplishments and endeavors.

He was an amazing gardener and kept vases full of gorgeous flowers. He could grow plants of all kinds from a cutting. He liked to hunt, raised a vegetable garden, and made the best fried green maters, deer meat, and sausage gravy to go with Louetta's delicious homemade biscuits. He was a friend to his animals and adored by his dogs and grandpups. Robert played guitar and sang beautifully. He had a fantastic ear for music and could play any song he heard. He inspired and ministered to others through his music, playing at sunrise services, church, benefits, reunions, and picking at home on the couch. He whistled and sang all day long. He was caring, witty, and outgoing, with a great sense of humor and a smile to share. He enjoyed telling stories and never met a stranger.

Robert was a master housepainter with his own business, Smith Painting Service, and did the work of a whole crew by himself, even at 75. He built the family home, helped his kids with homes and cars, and could fix about anything.

He enlisted and served our country honorably in the U.S. Army as a young man, in Vietnam. A demolitions expert, he looked out for his fellow soldiers by clearing the roads of landmines. He was tough, strong, and well respected by his company.

Robert left us with a lifetime of wonderful memories and lessons to cherish. Love your family, friends, and community. Work hard, be strong, and do your best. Share your creativity and talents. Enjoy laughter, appreciate the simple moments, and find beauty in life.

Please join us at Cowee Baptist Church, on Wednesday, October 9. Visitation will be held from 1-2 PM, with a funeral service to follow at 2 PM. Reverand Ronnie Branson, Reverand Chris Ciufo, and Reverand Jason Smith will officiate. Burial will be at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery following the service.

Pallbearers will be Doyle Baumgarner, Roy Baumgarner, Glenn Bryson, Joe Edmiston, Buddy Johnson, and Grant Smith. Honorary pallbearers are Kenneth and Vern Davis.

In lieu of flowers, memorial can be made to WNC Relief by going to www.cowee.church/relief, or to the local Vietnam Veterans Scholarship Fund, VVA Chapter #994, 249 Sloan Rd, Franklin, NC 28734.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.