Pastor Charles Eugene Smith passed away on Sunday, August 14, 2022, at his home in Warrenton. Charles was born on March 27, 1935, in Ashland, MO, to the late Edward and Mabel (nee: McCoy) Smith. He had reached the age of 87 years.
Charles was united in marriage to the love of his life, Imogene Jewell Taylor, on May 25, 1957. Shortly after, he was drafted. Charles proudly served our country in the US Army. He was stationed in Fort Hood, TX, and Germany, where he served with Elvis Presley in both locations. Charles and Imogene were blessed with 2 children, Angela and Rebecca.
Charles loved to learn and teach. He spent many hours at the University of Missouri, Columbia, and completed a Bachelor of Science in Education (1963), Master of Education (1969), Graduate Certificate of Specialization in Education (1973), and completed all but his dissertation for a PhD in School Administration. Charles spent many years as an educator serving in high schools as a teacher, guidance counselor and vocational evaluator. He also served as the Director of Testing at Lincoln University and taught classes for Missouri Baptist University.
Charles was ordained into the ministry in 1962 while serving at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Columbia, MO. He was a faithful servant of God and served as a pastor in various communities for over 51 years. Oak Grove Baptist Church, Jonesburg, honored him as Pastor Emeritus. Charles was a loving and devoted husband to Imogene, having cared for her for 12 years prior to her passing in 2012.
Charles loved people. He never met a stranger. Charles enjoyed watching Cardinal baseball and westerns. He enjoyed traveling, genealogy research, and collecting coins.
Charles Eugene Smith was preceded in death by his loving wife, Imogene; his parents, Edward and Mabel Smith; and two sisters, Betty Gayle Smith and Shirley Chapman. Those who are grateful for having shared in his life are his daughters, Angela Benach and Rebecca Smith; sister, Hazel Balfour; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends. He will be missed by all who knew him.
A visitation for Pastor Charles Smith will be held on Tuesday, August 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Martin Funeral Home in Warrenton. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 24 at 10 a.m. at Fellowship Baptist Church in Warrenton, officiated by Dr. Rick Hedger. Burial will follow at Nashville Baptist Cemetery in Ashland, MO.
Memorial donations are suggested to Nashville Baptist Church Cemetery or MBC Partnership Missions, c/o Martin Funeral Home, 510 East Main Street, Warrenton, MO 63383. Online condolences may be made at www.martinfuneral.net.
