Charles Leslie Smith, Sr. April 19, 1935 – September 28, 2025

Charles Leslie "Smitty" Smith, Sr., 90, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, in his home, with his daughter by his side holding his hand — just as he lived, surrounded by love and family.

Born on April 19, 1935, in his childhood home in Hackettstown, New Jersey, Charles — lovingly known as "Smitty" to friends and "Pop Pop" to his grandchildren — lived a life defined by hard work, quiet heroism, and unwavering devotion to his family.

He married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Moyer, on February 20, 1956. Together they built a strong, loving family and raised two children, Charles Leslie Smith Jr. and Cindy Smith Long. Charles and Barbara shared 67 beautiful years of marriage before Barbara's passing in 2023.

Throughout his life, Smitty was a tireless worker and a true provider. From setting pins in a bowling alley at just seven years old for five cents a game, to selling Christmas trees, to working at Elastimold, he never shied away from hard work. In 1978, he and Barbara moved to Sumter County, Florida, where they founded Sumter Gardens Trailer Park — starting with just four trailers and growing it into a 13-home community, a lasting testament to their vision, determination, and partnership.

Beyond creating a home for their own family, Smitty and Barbara gave many young families in the community their start. For countless people, Sumter Gardens was a stepping stone — a place where dreams took root because of Smitty's kindness, fairness, and quiet willingness to help others get on their feet.

A talented woodworker, Charles founded Kids Wood Furniture in 1982, crafting everything from rocking horses and desks to personalized name plaques. Working side by side with his son, Chas, he passed down not only skills, but values and memories that will endure for generations. He was patient and determined to teach his daughter Cindy about cars, even before she could drive. She often chose time in the shop with her dad over the kitchen, learning lessons in confidence and self-reliance along the way.

Smitty was also a man of action and courage. Just two weeks after moving to Florida, he saved a three-year-old boy from a burning house — breaking a window with his bare hands and pulling the child to safety, earning 15 stitches in the process. That moment of selflessness was just one example of the kind of man he was every day.

Although he never finished high school as a young man, Charles and Barbara returned to school in their 40s to earn their GEDs — proving that learning and growth never stop, no matter your age.

Smitty had a teasing spirit, a warm heart, and a lifelong love of music and motorcycles that he shared with his family. He gave his son his first Honda 50cc at just six years old and proudly served as pit crew during his racing days. He even encouraged Barbara to get her motorcycle license in her 20s. His green Chevy van, favorite songs playing, and hearty laugh became beloved family trademarks.

He showed up for everyone — without fail. Whether it was a school performance, awards ceremony, or sporting event, Pop Pop was always there, cheering the loudest and beaming with pride. His steady presence and encouragement made his family feel seen, supported, and deeply loved.

To his grandchildren, he was the beloved jokester, gentle tease, and constant source of strength. To his sister Sandy, he was "the most honest man she ever knew." To all who knew him, he was a man of integrity, kindness, and quiet strength. He modeled what it meant to be a good man, a loving husband, a dedicated father, and an extraordinary grandfather.

He is survived by his children, Charles (Chas) Leslie Smith Jr. and Cindy Smith Long; his grandchildren, Melissa Ngo, Lindsay Montgomery, Michelle Woodard, and Kimberly Diffendal; and his great-grandchildren, Seth, Maddox, Rylee, Jaxen, Mira, Nora, Theodore, and Genevieve.

Charles will be remembered not only for the life he built, but for the love he gave so freely. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.