Charles Ray Smith - 87, of Denton, Texas, reached the end of his earthly toils and passed away peacefully on November 13, 2023 in Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Denton, Texas on July 8, 1936 to Alvin and Edith Irene "Dollie" Smith.

Charles Ray was a life-long member of First Baptist Church of Denton (First Denton) and remained a devout Christian who followed his Savior until his last breath. All those who knew Charles Ray witnessed his faith through his generosity of spirit and the grace he extended to everyone, regardless of their station in life.

He was also a member of the Texas Boys Choir, a Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity brother, a Junior Denton Chamber of Commerce member, an active Denton High School alumni, and a Master Mason who fostered deep connections with friends from every aspect and stage of his life.

Charles Ray, or "Smitty", as he became known to most, was one of the hardest working men you could hope to come across. After retiring from Jeswood Oil Company, he immediately obtained his certification in backflow testing and continued to work until his passing.

Outside of his career at Jeswood Oil Company, Charles Ray was also a well known, and well respected businessman in the Denton community. Over the years he owned pool halls, rental properties and several service stations, among other things.

In the midst of all of his hard work, he managed to build a beautiful family with his high school sweetheart, Carol Ann Smith (formerly Willis). He began courting her in high school and this continued into their time at the University of North Texas. After four years of courtship, they were married on May 24, 1958 and went on to have four beautiful daughters - Gina, Cheri, Shawn and Shelli.

Charles Ray was preceded in death by parents Alvin O. Smith and Edith Irene Smith, brothers A.O. Smith, Dural Smith, and his sister Elsie Jo Smith.

He is survived by his daughters Gina Smith, Cheri Haygood (Jim), Shawn Smith and Shelli Cockburn (Danny), his grandchildren Misty Chesnut, Luke Chesnut, Trent Wright, DJ Cockburn, Zack Cockburn, Hunter Haygood, Hannah Haygood, Skylar Stout, Avery Thibodeaux, McKenna Stout, Micah Gillman, and Saelor Travis, as well as his great-grandchildren, Zoe Fleming, Morgan Chesnut, Leila Fleming, Aubrey Chesnut,
and Josie Thibodeaux.

Charles Ray Smith was also survived by his dear wife, Carol Ann Smith, to whom he devoted 65 years of love and marriage.

While the graveside service will be held only for the family, a Celebration of Life reception will be held for all those who wish to pay their respects. Information as follows:

December 2nd, 2023
11am-1pm
Fellowship Hall in First Denton (First Baptist Church of Denton)
1100 Malone St.
Denton, Texas 76201

Parking with direct entrance to Fellowship Hall is in the North East Parking lot. (Special Event signage will help to guide you.)

**In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to the Denton County Veterans Center through Denton County United Way