George Byron Smith

George B. Smith, age 87, peacefully went to be with the Lord, July 13, 2020 at the Caldwell Hospice in Hudson, North Carolina.  George was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, April 18, 1933 to the late Louise and Dr. George H. Smith.  He lived at Grace Ridge in Morganton, North Carolina.

George is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Ruth (Cupps) Smith; sons, Brian (Debra) Smith and Steven (Carla) Smith; daughters, Aimee Smith, Jenni (James) Gaynor; grandchildren Katie Smith, Bradford Smith, Tyler Smith, Cassie Smith, Michael Smith, Sierra Smith, and Nathan Gaynor; special niece, Melissa (Pete) McLean; and special friend, Kathy Staton.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by sons, Daniel and Scott (Heidi) Smith; and brother, Dr. Donald Smith.

George graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1959 with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Chemistry.  After his graduation, he served in the Chemical Corp at Ft. McClellan, Alabama, 1^st Lt., as part of his commitment to the ROTC Reserves, US Army.  He was employed for 37 years at Merck & Co. in Rahway, New Jersey in the Research Labs in the study of Kinetics.

During his retirement, he and Ruth enjoyed touring and cruising to many countries.  He also enjoyed gardening, bridge, Bible study, and was skilled in needlework.  Above all, he enjoyed his family and home.

A private service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.  The family would like to extend its deepest appreciation to Home Instead, Hickory, North Carolina and Caldwell Hospice, Hudson, North Carolina for their kind and loving care to George.