Fred Smith

Fred Cox Smith was born on May 15, 1934, to Emory and Mattie Smith in Greenville, South Carolina. On Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Fred went to meet the Lord and join those who preceded him, including his older brother, Emory Norington Smith.

Fred will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him, including his devoted wife of 52 years, Suzanne (Sue) Smith, and their five children: Stephen Smith, David Smith (Kip), Rachel Smith, Jonathan Smith, and Elizabeth Chapman (Caleb). His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren: Sophie Nguyen, Precious Bounphisai, Alicia Chapman, Shelby Smith, Destiny Piemmalay, Olivia Smith, Mikaila Bounphisai, and Caleb Chapman Jr., as well as his three great-grandchildren: Harper Trevino, Jasper Jones, and Kyro Gamez.

Fred served his country with distinction, spending two years in the Army, including a tour in South Korea. He met the love of his life, Sue, in Chicago. Together, they shared a passion for the outdoors and were accomplished small boat sailors, rarely tipping over their boats. They camped extensively across the United States and several other countries. Fred was a perpetual gardener, cultivating nearly every type of flowering plant he could find and nursing many back to health. Later in life, he discovered a love for photography, capturing stunning images in places like Gravanga and Cinque Terre, Italy. Their engagement in the Alps was cut short due to an unfortunate skiing accident that left Sue with a broken leg, which Fred tenderly cared for during her recovery.

For 40 years, Fred and Sue lived in South Bend, IN, where they raised their five adopted children and were active members of the People of Praise Community. Fred cherished being a father and took immense joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren. After retirement, they moved to Tampa, FL, enjoying the sunshine and participating in the Tampa branch of the People of Praise. Over their 52-year marriage, the family shared many outdoor adventures across the United States and Canada.

Fred was a humble and faithful servant of the Lord, known for his generosity and kindness. He lived his faith through service, acting as a Eucharistic minister to the homebound, preparing sandwiches for the homeless, and participating in numerous People of Praise mission trips. Fred was a dear friend to everyone he met, whether in a store, on a walk, or during a bike ride. He delighted in inviting people over for meals and made lasting impressions on all who crossed his path.

Fred’s life was an example and inspiration to many. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him because of the indelible footprints he left behind.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to flowingwaters.net, a ministry dedicated to bringing lifesaving water to people in Africa.