Committal
Brian began his working career with Drexel Heritage Furnishings in 1981 where he served in many roles. He was employed in the furniture industry for 44 years. During his career in the furniture industry, he worked with a number of companies across many divisions. His international responsibilities took him throughout South America and Asia. He was with Caracole Furniture as the Director of Casegoods Quality Assurance & Sourcing - Asia at the time of his death.
Brian was passionate about the environment as well as his community. He worked with several organizations during his lifetime including Ducks Unlimited, United Way, and was a charter member of the Mocksville Jaycees. Brian was also an accomplished outdoorsman whether he was hunting game birds, waterfowl, or fishing in fresh and saltwater. He marveled at Gods work through nature while watching the sunrise or sunset across diverse settings. He cherished the decades spent with The Boys in their pursuit of fins and feathers.
Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 37 years, Sherri Blinson Smith; sons, Ian David Smith of Morganton and Logan Payne Smith of Denver, Colorado; brothers, Michael B. Smith (Harriet) and Jeffery B Smith (Rebecca); father-in-law, David Blinson; sister-in-law, Jannell Self (Junior); and numerous nephews, nieces, and extended family.
The family would like to express their deep appreciation to Greg Lushbaugh for being with him in a time of need, and the companies of Vivet, especially Mike Reeves and Howard Pan. The family would also like to extend a special thanks to his associates in Vietnam: Johnson, Kathy, and Tuyet for their assistance in his care while there.
The service will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025 at First United Methodist Church of Morganton with the Rev. Dan Hestor and Rev. Paul Thompson officiating. The family will greet friends following the service.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church Discretionary Fund, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655 or Foothills Conservancy Of North Carolina, P.O. Box 3023, Morganton, NC 28680.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Visitation
July 12, 2025
First United Methodist Church Morganton
Service
July 12, 2025
3 p.m.
First United Methodist Church Morganton
Committal
N/A
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Brian David Smith.
We Love and Miss you uncle Brian.
Brian's passing was such deeply sad news. While I didn't work with Brian on a daily basis, whenever I did it was with such admiration for his passion, knowledge and warmth. In this life people like Brian are the rarest kind and he will be missed every day. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with your entire family and all the people throughout the world that had the distinct honor and pleasure of knowing a man like Brian Smith.
I was heartbroken to hear about Brian’s passing. I had the pleasure of working with him during my time at Caracole, and he was truly one of the kindest, most genuine people I’ve met. His warmth, professionalism, and sense of humor made a lasting impression. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and everyone who loved him.
We extend our condolences to our Morganton family and regret that we can’t be with you physically but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you and sending you strength during this difficult time.
Our heartfelt condolences to Jeff, Becky and Jeff and Becky sister-in-law. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Hugs to you all.
Sherri, Ian and Payne now that I have read the obit. I understand why there was a delay. So many things you had to navigate. Thank you for being such good neighbors at Hermitage East over the years. I always enjoyed stopping by to have great conversations with Brian and always going away feeling encouraged about the life journeys God had us on. He always spoke so highly of his spouse Sherri, Ian and Payne. We compared notes with my two girls being a little older than the boys. Coaching Ian in tennis will always be a memory for me. May you all work through the grief with Christ at your side.
Sherri, I am so sorry to hear about this. May God comfort you and your family during this difficult time. Renee' Link
Brian, I only knew you for a short amount of time, but during that time period you made a drastic impact on my life. Everytime I would see you in meetings at work or even online you had the biggest smile on your face and the greatest energy. I’m so sad we didn’t get to learn about each other more but your memory will forever live on through Caracole. To Brian’s family, I am deeply sorry for your loss. He was an amazing person, and I can’t even imagine how you all are feeling at this time. I’m sending my sincere condolences and prayers. Ahija