CLAYTON - Stephen Cole Smith, 46, of Clayton, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sept. 7, 2021.
He was born on June 25, 1975 in Raleigh, NC to Roger and Doris Smith.
Stephen was currently employed as Membership Coordinator with the NC Association of Rescue and EMS. He graciously served his community for 30 years as an EMT and firefighter. In 1991, he began as a volunteer with Clayton Area Rescue. He later worked as an EMT with WakeMed Cardiac Mobile Unit. After several years, he decided to begin a career as a firefighter with 50/210 Fire Department. Stephen continued his love for the department as he worked for Clayton Fire Department until 2016 when a medical condition caused him to change his career path. Fortunately, Stephen was able to continue his work in the field of emergency medicine by working with the NC Association of Rescue and EMS until his passing.
Stephen was a fun loving, caring, outgoing guy. He had a contagious, friendly smile that would light up a room. He was a dedicated and loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. Anyone who knew Stephen knew he loved Jesus and enjoyed sharing his faith. He was a lifelong member of Garner Free Will Baptist Church where he has served as a deacon.
In addition to his parents, Stephen is survived by his wife, Amy, of 20 years; daughter, Kaci; son, Cole; sister, Lynn Stanfield (Wayne) of Benson; nephew, Hunter Stanfield; niece, Maria Stanfield; mother-in-law, Teresa Pryse of Clayton; father-in-law, Bobby Pryse of Fayetteville; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Amber and Brian Jarman of Clayton. He loved and enjoyed time with all of his family including aunts, uncles and cousins.
A visitation for Stephen will be held Friday, September 10, 2021 from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at McLaurin Funeral Home, 12830 US 70 Bus Hwy W, Clayton, NC 27520. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 2:00 PM at McLaurin Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Fred Scott officiating. Burial will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, monetary donations for the family may be made to Garner Free Will Baptist Church 1133 Benson Road Garner, NC 27529 or https://garnerfwb.churchcenter.com/giving/to/benevolence
McLaurin Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Smith family.
