Feb. 17, 1944 ~ May 30, 2022
Charles Elmo Smith, 78, of Amherst passed away Monday, May 30, 2022 at his home. He was born February 17, 1944 in Gatesville, Texas to Earnest Eugene Smith and Daisy Estelle (Kellogg) Smith.
Charles graduated from Amherst High School with the class of 1963. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War where he was awarded good conduct, defense and marksmanship medals for his service. Charles spent most of his career as an electrician living in several Texas cities before returning to Amherst. His passion was music, and he was a gifted musician who could play multiple instruments by both ear and sight-reading. He was especially intrigued by Blues music and learning to perfect cords and sounds from that genre. Charles was also known for his love of art and having the ability to design, build and paint his treasures out of any object. He was a member of the Rocky Ford Baptist Church where he enjoyed fellowshipping, playing music and serving his community.
He is survived by a daughter, Charlsa Ann Wine of Caldwell, Texas; a son, Andrew Preston Smith of Amherst; two grandchildren, Jack Theodore Goodman and Sophie Wine Goodman; a twin brother, Raby Carl Smith of Dayton, Texas; a sister, Delores Adams of Early, Texas; and several nieces, nephews and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his long-time partner, Judy Nelson; and sister, Jean Hensley.
Memorial services will be held at Rocky Ford Church at 12 noon on June 18, 2022 followed by his inurned at Fairlawn Cemetery in Amherst, Texas. Directly after, there will be a social at First Baptist Church in Amherst at 1:15 p.m. Cremation arrangements are under the personal care of Hillcrest Funeral Home in Littlefield.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rocky Ford Church or Save The Music Foundation in his name.