Tony Albert Smith

With deepest sorrow and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Tony Albert Smith, aged 68, on July 12, 2026. Born on May 4, 1958, in Rockingham, North Carolina, Tony's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and extraordinary stories that touched the hearts of everyone he encountered. Tony was the cherished son of Floyd Albert (Al) Smith Jr. and Doris Allen Smith of Hilliard, Florida. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents Roland and Elsie Davis Allen, Floyd A. Smith Sr. and Callie Mill Smith, and his dear Uncle Curtis Smith, all of Rockingham, NC. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth and love through his fiancée, Karen Sharpe Tauscher, his brother, Jerry Alan Smith and wife Debbie Carter Soles-Smith, and his sister, Teresa Smith Kidd, all of Hilliard, FL. Tony was a proud uncle to Sonya Irene Golub, Connor Jewel Murphy (Dylan), and Morgan Alyse (Ali) Kidd, as well as a doting great-uncle to Maggie and Amelia, all residing in Georgia. His surviving family also includes his Aunt Betty Smith Melton, Aunt Jennifer Allen Hurlocker (Howard), numerous cousins, and a circle of special friends who considered Tony family. Tony's education journey took him from Windsor Forest High School in Savannah, Georgia, to graduating from Wolfson High School in Jacksonville, Florida. His professional life began humbly as a "shoeshine boy" in Fitzgerald, GA, when he was just a young 7th grader. His passion for cooking was ignited at Kentucky Fried Chicken in Savannah, GA, and honed during his high school years at Chic-fil-a. He briefly worked alongside his mother at Electrolux in Jacksonville, FL, before embarking on a distinguished career as an SCL/CSX Electrician. A man of diverse interests, Tony was a proud member of the Georgia Bulldog Club and the Carolina Shag Club in North Myrtle Beach, SC. He was known for his infectious enthusiasm, his unwavering loyalty to friends and family, and his ability to light up any room with his presence. His love for music and dance, especially the Carolina Shag, was legendary, embodying the joy and zest for life that defined him. A service to celebrate Tony's life will be held on July 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Watson-King Funeral Home, located at 306 E Franklin Street, Rockingham, NC 28380. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who loved Tony and shared in his life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Tony's memory. Thank you all for loving Tony. His spirit will forever be a beacon of joy and warmth in our hearts.