Charles E. Smith

Charles E. Smith, 78, of Blooming Valley, died March 29, 2023 at St. Vincent Hospital.

He was the only son born to Ira Samuel and Hazel Maillard Smith on October 25, 1944.  He married Nancy Alward on March 23, 1968.  They were married for 53 years before Nancy preceded him in death February 12, 2021.

Charlie was a 1962 graduate of Randolph East Mead High School.  He was a farmer all his life.  First he was a dairy farmer and then he became a beef farmer with his grandson Tyler Crawford.  He retired from Pennsylvania Tool and Gages after 49 years to help Nancy run their banquet hall, Smith’s County Gardens.

He loved to garden and take care of his flowerbeds.  He especially loved roses.  Before his marriage, he owned Hemlock Glade Nursery and raised Christmas trees and did landscaping for many prominent people in Meadville.  When he had down time, he liked watching western shows, football, golf, and NASCAR.

Survivors include his daughter, Sheila (Bob) White of Cochranton, his son, Michael (Jennifer) Smith, his daughter, Grace Smith, and his son, Bill Smith, all of Blooming Valley; six grandchildren, Katie Wellmon (fiancé Mike Webster), Colton Smith, Tyler Crawford, Ryan Sterling, Brianna Smith, and Isla Smith; sisters, Irene (Dom) Furno, Donna Carroll, Ruthie (Paul) Gandelot, and Judy Thomas; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; a sister and brother-in-law, Pearl (Jack) Bierman; and two brothers-in-law, Bobby Carroll and Charlie Thomas.

The family would like to send their love and thanks out to Jessie Bailey, Jodi Caldwell, Robin Peterson, and George Richardson for all their great care and friendship while helping the family take care of their parents.  It couldn’t have been done without you all.

A private graveside service will be held at Blooming Valley Cemetery with interment to follow.

The arrangements have been entrusted to the ROBERT W. WAID FUNERAL HOME, 581 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE where memories and condolences may be shared at www.waidfuneralhome.net