Chadwick Lee Smith's Obituary
Chadwick Lee Smith, 53, of Oakboro, passed away Thursday, September 18, 2025. A funeral service to celebrate his life will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Bethel Baptist Church in Locust with Pastor Brian Bolding officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakboro Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday evening from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle.
Born May 1, 1972, in Mecklenburg County, Chad was the beloved son of Roy Lee Smith and Carolyn Morton Smith of Oakboro, and beloved husband of Ellie Smith. He was a retired Geology Technician with the NC Department of Transportation and was the proud owner and operator of Good Life Grading. A lifelong member of Bethel Baptist Church, Chad’s faith guided his life and was evident in the way he cared for others.
Chad’s family remembers him as a devoted husband, loving father, faithful son and brother, and a steadfast friend. His family meant everything to him. He was the rock everyone leaned on—faithful, helpful, funny, and always providing for those he loved. He had a passion for the outdoors and especially enjoyed hunting duck, turkey, dove, and deer. He loved grilling, relaxing by the pool, listening to bluegrass and old country music, and being surrounded by family and friends.
Known for his quick wit and humor, Chad’s “Chadisms” brought many smiles—phrases like “10-4,” “hanging out like hair in a biscuit,” “out of here like a Washburn in a Spelling Bee,” and calling everyone “Bubba.” When faced with life’s challenges, his simple but powerful reminder was always, “Give it to God.” He had a gift for storytelling—often standing up to act out his tales with laughter and energy. Above all, he adored his wife Ellie, whom he lovingly called “Baby,” and their children.
Chad is survived by his wife of 28 years, Ellie Smith; his parents, Roy Lee and Carolyn Smith of Oakboro; three children, Dawson Smith (Brooke Helms) of Oakboro, Carson Smith of Oakboro, and Mylee Smith of Oakboro; and his sister, Karla Aldridge (Kelly) of Oakboro.
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