Charles Edward Smith

Dr. Charles Edward Smith, 77, of Poplar Bluff died Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010 in Destin, Fla., after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Dr. Smith was born Sept. 29, 1932 in Dexter. During his childhood he lived in St. Louis, and graduated from Central High School. As an adult, he served in the U. S. Navy. Throughout his lifetime, Dr. Smith enjoyed the challenge of learning. His education includes a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Divinity, Master of Theology, Master of Arts and Doctorate of Ministry. Dr. Smith was an active member of First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff, and the Destin United Methodist Church in Destin, Fla. where he served as a teacher. He was a retired family counselor, author of numerous life purpose books and a lecturer. Dr. Smith enjoyed playing golf, tennis, singing, and being with family and friends. Charles had a special quality of always making others smile and laugh.

On Nov. 7, 1993, he married Norma L. McLane in Poplar Bluff. She survives. Charles and Norma have resided in Poplar Bluff for over sixteen years.

Surviving are his niece, Linda Thomas and daughters; nephews, David McKay and sons and Dale McKay and sons; four children, Jana McLane Brown and husband Travis, Joey McLane and wife, Angela, Jerri Ann McLane Rowland and husband David and Steve Smith of West Virginia; a sister, Helen McKay of Memphis, Tenn.; nine grandchildren: McLane Poteet, Corey Poteet, Alli Poteet, Marissa McLane, Annaleese Williams, Chloe Rowland, Robert Rowland, Ashley Maples and Amber Maples.

His parents, Charley Lewis and Birtha Mae Smith, along with two brothers proceeded Dr. Smith in death.

The family will receive and visit with friends from 9:30 am - 12 noon Thursday at First United Methodist Church. A service of celebration of Dr. Smith's life will follow at 12 noon at the church with the Rev. Charles Buck officiating and the Rev. Tom Knodell assisting.

Memorials may be made to UCAN (United Cancer Assistance Network), 1419 Maud St., Poplar Bluff, Mo. 63901, or the First United Methodist Church, 500 North Main St., Poplar Bluff. Mo. 63901.