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Official Obituary of

Harold Douglas Smith

September 17, 1950 ~ April 22, 2025 (age 74) 74 Years Old

Harold Smith Obituary

Doug Smith, 74, of Kinson passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025 at 10:14 am, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather of two, sports coach, and friend, Doug lived a life defined by service, generosity, and unwavering love for those around him.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, Jim Tom Smith and Frances Howard Smith and brother, Gene Smith.

Born on September 17,1950, Doug was raised on his family’s farm just outside of town, where he learned early the value of hard work, community, and the simple joys of life such as telling a joke. The fields he worked as a boy instilled in him a sense of purpose and dedication that would carry through every chapter of his life. He loved riding his motorcycle, playing basketball, fishing, baseball, camping, and laughing with family and friends.

After graduating high school, Doug proudly served his community as a farmer and law enforcement officer for 30 plus years. After retiring from DMV he served as Federal Court Security Officer.  Known for his fairness, steady hand, and kind heart, he never met a person he wouldn't help. Whether chasing down leads as a DMV inspector or lending a stranger money for food without a second thought, Doug believed in doing right by people—no matter who they were. He rarely didn’t know someone or make a friend.

Doug’s generosity was seen throughout his life. He was quick to help friends and even strangers with a meal, a ride to a basketball or baseball game and a word of advice about the Lord. If something needed fixing, he'd show up with his toolbox and then ask for you to bring something to him. And if you needed a friend, you could count on him to be there—no questions asked, well maybe a few. He loved to talk and tell jokes.

Above all else, Doug loved his family. He was a devoted husband to his community college sweetheart Ginny, for 55 beautiful years. A proud father to Brian who he did everything with as he grew up. His home was always filled with laughter, warmth, and the smell of something delicious on the stove unless he was making toast, dad could cook anything but toast, I think it was because it wasn’t meant for the grill like his classic steaks or fish stews.

Doug leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication to serve, and humility. His impact will be felt in the hearts of everyone lucky enough to know him. While his boots or tennis shoes may no longer be by the door, his spirit remains in every act of goodness we carry forward.  Doug is survived by his wife, Ginny Smith; son, Brian Smith and wife, Rebecca; grandchildren, Chandler and Brice; nephews, Derek Smith and Darren Smith; sister-in-law, Martha Smith; brothers-in-law, Ronnie Sugg and wife, Juanita, Clyde Sugg and wife Deanne; special niece, Melissa and special nephews, James, Levy and Chris.

A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at the Howard-Carter Funeral home on Saturday, April 26 at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Saint Jude’s Cancer Research Hospital that helps families who need help caring for their kid. 


Services

Visitation
Saturday
April 26, 2025

11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Howard - Carter Funeral Home
1608 W Vernon Avenue
Kinston, NC 28504

Funeral Service
Saturday
April 26, 2025

1:00 PM
Howard - Carter Funeral

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