Charles Dewey Smith, age 79, son of Doyle and Vivian (Fulks) Smith, was born May 5, 1946, in Lebanon, Missouri. Charles passed away on December 7, 2025.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents and two infant siblings.

He is survived by his wife Linda; two sons, Brad (Teresa) and Doug (Shannon); grandchildren, Dakota (Makayla), Megan (Zeke), Dillon (Taylor), Brady (Brenley); great-grandchildren, Prayli, Primli, Quinley, Rolen, Astoria, Collins, and Charles Lee; sister, Phyllis Ary and her family; and several nieces and nephews.

C.D., as he was commonly referred to, grew up and lived in the Licking area his whole life (and rarely left Texas County). He graduated Licking High School in 1964 and married his high school sweetheart, Linda Creek, in 1966.

Charles was a member of the Licking Church of Christ where he was baptized as a teenager. He enjoyed the fellowship with his Christian brothers and sisters and attended as-long-as his health would allow.

C.D. retired from Intercounty Electric after 29 years of service. He thoroughly enjoyed getting out and meeting the Co-op’s patrons and helping them receive the services needed. He was a true servant of the community.

Charles developed his love of farming at an early age with his Grandpa Roy. He loved putting up hay, feeding hay, fixing fence, and brush-hogging. He was never too tight to set an extra bale of hay out or feed one more coffee can of grain.

He rarely missed his early morning coffee shop gatherings (both Licking and Edgar Springs) with all the regulars. He loved to talk about farming, cattle prices, and equipment. His work ethic, and passion of the outdoors and farming was passed on to his boys and grandkids.

Charles was a wonderful husband, brother, dad, grandpa, and friend. His humility and kindness were felt not only by his family, but throughout the community. He will truly be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sonshine and Rainbow Day School in memory of Charles.