Lamar Smith

Charles Lamar Smith of Gardendale, Al went to be with the Lord on January 12, 2020. Lamar was born in Sanford, Florida and lived there until March 1942, when he joined the US Navy during WWII. He served in the South Pacific on the USS Indiana during the War. After the war he was transferred to various ships and stations until he retired as a Chief Petty Officer after 21 years in the service. He went to work for Civil Service at the Charleston Naval Ship Yard for 20 years following his military service. He was a Mason, and member of Eastern Star where he served as Worthy Grand Chaplain. He was preceded in death by his father, Laugton Smith, mother, Lillian Barber, and his loving wife of 65 years, Alva A Rigsby Smith. He is survived by his son, Charles Stephen Smith (Ginger), his grandchildren, Tracy Lancaster (Chad), Chris Smith (Sommer), four great grandchildren, Stephen and Lulu Lancaster, Christian and Luke Smith, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

Lamar was a member of Gracepoint United Methodist Church.

He was known for his gentle spirit, and was respected and loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His family and Braves baseball were his greatest joys.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 PM Wednesday 1/15/2020 at Gardendale Ridout’s, with burial to follow at Oakwood Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 1-2 PM.