Charles Eugene Smith of Lakeland, Florida, was called home on April 13, 2023, at the age of 87.

Charles was born in Highland City, Fl to Oliver Benjamin Smith and Elvie Jane Woods on February 14, 1936 and remained a life long resident of Polk County. He retired from W.R Grace as an electrician in 1974 due to an automobile accident that rendered him disabled and unable to perform his work duties.

Charles had a big personality with an even bigger heart. He dedicated his life to giving back to his community, specifically to the youth. He, along with childhood friend Pete Roberson and other members of the community, worked hard to establish the Highland City Youth Baseball Complex. After moving to North Lakeland, he became heavily involved in 4-H and the local FFA chapters. He could always be found at the Kathleen Middle School AG department, helping students with their agriculture projects and helping prepare them for upcoming fairs. Known to the students as "Mr. Charlie", he could always be counted on to lend a helping hand.

Charles is preceded in death by both of his parents, his sisters Lucille, Jeanette, Marie, and his brother Franklin, and Naomi Gail Schnurr (mother of his children Wanda, Cindy, and Dwayne). He is survived by his sister, Barbara Smith of Marianna, FL, half-sisters Paulette Odell and Bonnie Odell of Douglas, GA, Sallie Smith (mother of his children Beverly, Wendy, and Brian), his children Wanda Smith Fi'ss of Sulphur, LA, Cindy Bowden of Lakeland, Dwayne Smith (Cindy) of Plant City, Beverly Laidig (Keith) of Lakeland, Wendy E. Smith of Lakeland, Brian P. Smith (Amber) of Lakeland, grand children Amanda Lawson, Dakota Laidig, Haylee Laidig, Jack Laidig, Kobrin Smith,Abigail Smith, Jason Seawright, and April Bowden, as well as several great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Charles will be laid to rest at the Oak Hill Cemetery on Friday, April 21, 2023 with graveside services being held at 10: 30 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local 4-H and/or FFA Chapter or the Highland City Youth Baseball Complex.