Robert Lee “Bob” Smith, 83, of Huntersville, N.C., passed away Thursday, December 19, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C. after a brief illness. Bob was a native of West Virginia, born February 25, 1941, in Albright. For the last 2 decades he called Huntersville home.
Bob is survived by his wife of 57 years, Pamela Lucas Smith; their daughters, Lee Foster (John) of Cornelius, N.C., and Leslie Hutcheson (Roger) of Huntersville; grandchildren, Emily (fiance Ryan Daugherty) and Lucas Foster, and Parker and Avery Hutcheson; his siblings, Judy Hamrick of Huntersville, Jack Smith (Marilyn) of Morgantown; and sisters-in-law, Judy Y. Smith of Youngsville, N.C., and Cathy Wilson of Fairview. He also had many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Family is everything and Bob was a pillar within his, creating so many amazing memories.
Bob enlisted in the Air Force in 1962 and spent time in Japan during his 4-year term.
He was honorably discharged and then began his 34-year career with Monongahela Power in the substation division. He moved to the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) department in Fairmont. It was in these 30 years that he not only created a long-term career, but also made lifelong friendships with those on his team. They created a brotherhood filled with memories and he continued to cherish these men and their families throughout the years.
Bob and Pam lived in Rivesville, where they raised their family for 23 years. Neighbors quickly became family who looked out for each other and supported one another. They are so thankful for all of these friendships.
As Bob transitioned into a managerial role within Allegheny Energy for a few years they briefly lived in Greensburg, Pa. before retiring in North Carolina to be near their children and grandchildren. Bob was so proud of each of his grandchildren. From attending Eagle Scout ceremonies, orchestra performances, swim and track meets, tracking his grandson’s flights and supporting their small businesses he was always a present and supportive grandfather in their lives.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Dale and Glenna Smith; and brother, Nelson Smith.
Bob was a member of Huntersville United Methodist Church, where he assisted with the food pantry and where Pam put him to work with the many ‘volunteer’ opportunities she created for him within the kitchen.
They also are so fortunate to be surrounded by amazing neighbors that have provided so much care and support throughout the years.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, December 28, in Huntersville United Methodist Church in Huntersville. The family will receive friends and family from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the service at the church. A luncheon reception will follow, and the family welcomes everyone to join them.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude’s, Huntersville United Methodist Church or the American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces.
James Funeral Home of Huntersville is serving the family.
