Earl W. Smith, 86, of Morganton, NC gained his heavenly wings on Monday, November 3, 2025. He was born on April 3, 1939 in Burke County, NC to the late Walter Smith and Lois Smith. He was a member of Amherst Baptist Church and a veteran of the US Army. He owned and operated Earl Smith Grading. Earl loved to watch NASCAR and dirt track racing. He enjoyed bear hunting and being outdoors. Earl was a big fan of old TV westerns.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Myra Poteet Smith; granddaughter, Brandi Morgan; and sisters, Pearleen, Texa, Vicie, and Dot.
Earl is survived by his children, Angie Carswell (Doug), Kenny Smith (Julie), Doug Bailey, Mike Bailey, Barbie Davis (Sam), and Lois Bailey; grandchildren, Jeremy Carswell, Travis Carswell, Haley Smith, Justin Suttles, Aaron Bailey, Chelsey Queen, Cody Queen, and Brittney Sohar; five great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Mollie Poteet and Muriel Morgan.
The family will receive friends from 12 – 1 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2025 at Amherst Baptist Church. The funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. in the church with Rev. Thomas Herman and Rev. David Orders officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with military honors will be provided by the NC National Guard.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Earl was a fine man enjoyed hunting with him in the mountains and on the coast for many years he will be missed
I’ve always had such great admiration for our Uncle Earl. May he rest now in the arms of Jesus. Prayers going up for his children and all the loved ones he leaves behind.
He was a wonderful man and a treasure in a family of girls. Mama always thought of him as her baby
Another great one goes on before us. His presence will still be felt by all the lives he touched. He fought the good fight and has received his reward. Working or hunting he was a great man. The Bumgarner Family