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Bobby Jones “Bob” Smith, 88, died after an extended illness on Aug. 17, 2019 at Batangas Garden in Bermuda Run.

Mr. Smith was born in Winston-Salem on March 6, 1931 to parents Mack E. Smith and Beulah Jones Smith. He attended South Fork High School, where he was a band member and baseball team pitcher, graduating in 1948. The following year, he began work with Southern Bell Telephone as a lineman. In 1951, he was inducted into the US Army and served in the Korean War in the 66th Signal Corps. He earned the rank of Sgt (T) and was honorably discharged in 1953. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal with 2 Bronze Service Stars, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the United Nations Service Medal. After returning to Winston-Salem, where he resided until April of 2019, he resumed work at Southern Bell. He married Catherine Eleanor Hudson on Jan. 24, 1954, who remained his wife until her passing in 2012. They had two daughters, Sandra Leigh Smith and Lisa Cathryn Smith. On retiring from Bell South in 1987, Mr. Smith enjoyed growing and sharing vegetables from his garden in Winston-Salem and tending to the Angus cows on his property in Davie County. He also enjoyed hunting and was an expert marksman. He and his wife enjoyed dancing, from ballroom to square dancing, and maintained that activity for many years. Lapidary became another hobby and Mr. Smith cut and polished stones, training his older daughter and others in this craft, as well as giving and selling jewelry and bolos to friends, family and others. Describing him best are some comments from just a few of his family members and friends. He is, “universally loved by everyone who knows him. It is so hard to give up such a wonderful and loving person as he.” He, “embodies the very essence of character, grace and dignity regardless of circumstance.” He, “will leave a legacy of kindness, decency and integrity for those who follow. Always caring, always helpful, always smiling and always generous.”

Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents and wife is elder brother Mack. E. Smith Jr.

Surviving: daughters Sandra Smith and Lisa Smith (Michael Duggins), all of Davie County; as are numerous nieces, nephews and extended family member.

At Mr. Smith’s request, no services are planned.

Memorials: Telephone Pioneers of America or to the charity of your choice.

Condolences: www.daviefuneralservice.com.