He retired after 30 years of service as a machine operator with IPEX, Inc. Mr. Smothers was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.
Mr. Smothers is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Birda Lea Mull Smothers; sons, Thomas Lee Smothers, Jr., Robert Lee Smothers, and Jackie Ray Smothers, all of Wadesboro, NC; daughter, Peggy Sue Smothers of Wadesboro; brothers, Jim Carol Smothers of Fort Mill, SC and Lindsay Ray Smothers of Lilesville, NC; sisters, Mary Helen Tarlton of Marshville, NC, Margaret Heavener of Lincolnton, NC, and Brenda Benton of Polkton, NC; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Joyce Faye Smothers.
A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, September 26, 2013 at Independent Bible Baptist Church, 17025 Lancaster Hwy., Charlotte. The family will receive friends from 12 to 12:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Burial will be private.