Charles "Pudgy" Raymond Smith Jr.

Charles Raymond "Pudgy" Smith Jr went to be with the Lord on Sunday December 31, 2017, after a long battle with multiple sclerosis. Raymond was born in Nashville, TN, to Raymond and Clara Ann Smith on August 31, 1948. He graduated from Donelson High School in Nashville and the University of Tennessee, majoring in accounting. After graduation he enlisted in United States Marine Corp. Reserves where he served for six years. He earned his C. P. A. license and began his career at Ernst & Ernst. Later he worked for Hospital Corporation of America in internal audit, all in Nashville. Then he went to Terra Haute, Indiana, to serve as assistant administrator for one of HCA Hospitals. It was at the peak of his career when he began to develop serious health issues.

Raymond moved with his family to Knoxville. He was a member of Central Baptist Church, Bearden, where he was known for his sly sense of humor and strong spirit. He loved to share his testimony in a most joyful and entertaining way. Raymond loved people and attended UT football games as long as he could. Even when his own body betrayed him and he lost all movement, he never gave up or lost his beautiful smile. He loved to share his testimony in a most joyful and entertaining way. Raymond said that he was most proud of his two children and the fact that they both graduated college and are Christians. He will be missed by all who knew him, including his two children & five grandchildren.

Raymond was preceded in death by his beloved father, Charles Raymond Sr., and his sweet sister, Sheryl Smith Owens.

Raymond, or Pudge, is survived by loving son, David Raymond Smith, wife Sarah, children Ansley , Simon & Evan; and Raymond’s daughter Amber Michelle Henry, husband Chad and children Cora & Charlie; beloved mother, Clara Smith; brother David ”Porky” (Teresa) Smith ; sister Debbie Smith Wheeler; special caregiver Agnes Evans; former wife Mary Smith Anderson; and many dear aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews & cousins.

Family will receive friends at Hibbett & Hailey Funeral Home on Donelson Pike in Nashville on Friday, January 5, 2018, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. & Saturday from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Hibbett & Hailey on Saturday, January 6, 2018, at 1:30 p.m., with Bro Jack Barron officiating. Interment to immediately follow at Harpeth Hills Memorial.