Leroy Douglas Smith Jr.

Leroy Douglas Smith, Jr., 79, of New London, passed away peacefully at his home on June 1, 2026. A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at McRae Cemetery in Mount Gilead. The service will be officiated by Captain Jesse R. Tate, Chaplain USN (Ret.) The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle. Born January 22, 1947, in Montgomery County, North Carolina, Leroy was the son of the late Leroy Douglas Smith, Sr. and Hazel McRae Smith. Leroy dedicated much of his career to the textile industry, working as a fixer for Wiscassett Mills Company and Burlington Industries. Following his retirement from textiles, he worked with Stanly Salvage and later operated his own mobile home repair and setup business. Gifted with mechanical ability and an unmatched work ethic, Leroy could fix just about anything and was happiest when he had a project to tinker with. To those who knew him, Leroy was truly larger than life. He was humble, generous, selfless, funny, and deeply loving. He possessed a big heart and never hesitated to help someone in need. Children in the neighborhood often looked forward to seeing him, as he delighted in giving away toys and bringing smiles to their faces. If Leroy loved you, there was never any doubt about it. He treated everyone with respect and honesty. A man of strong faith, Leroy often reminded those around him to "Stay Prayed Up." He enjoyed listening to gospel and bluegrass music, watching western movies, cheering on NASCAR races, and following sports on television. He was an avid coon hunter who treasured time spent with his beloved Bluetick hounds. A devoted Ford enthusiast, Leroy especially loved Ford Broncos and could often be found talking about them, working on them, or admiring one wherever he saw it. He also enjoyed attending auctions and collecting a wide variety of treasures over the years. In his younger days, Leroy was a drag racer and motorcycle racer who loved speed and competition. His passion for engines never faded, and he became known for building exceptionally powerful Ford big-block motors. Among his favorite songs was "Man of Constant Sorrow," a fitting reflection of his appreciation for traditional music and storytelling. Family and friends will fondly remember his familiar sayings, "I can't help it," and "What do you want me to do about it?" Those simple phrases, delivered with his unique sense of humor, became part of the legacy he leaves behind. Leroy is survived by his beloved wife of 34 years, Linda Tate Smith of Denton; his children, Dwight Douglas Smith (Susan Eudy) of New London, Larry Joe Smith (Traci Thompson) of New London, and Sarah Rebecca Smith (Aaron Wolfe) of Denton; his sister, Marie Coley of Albemarle; his grandchildren, Jordan Haithcock, Preston Haithcock, Brianna Nicole Smith, and Justin "Justice" Cole Smith; and his dear friend, Billy Huddleston, whose friendship meant so much to him throughout the years. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Bobby Clark, Ricky Russell, Jessie Tate, Charlie Tate, Jr., and David N. Tate; his sisters-in-law, Sha Russell Foy, Teresa Russell Tucker, Barbara Diane Nance, and Therese Williams; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory. In addition to his parents, Leroy was preceded in death by his first wife, Ann Elizabeth Russell Smith, and his grandson, David Douglas Smith. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the lives he touched will remain with those who knew and loved him for years to come. As Leroy would often say, "Stay Prayed Up."

Leroy Douglas Smith Jr.

January 22, 1947 - June 1, 2026