Garland Ralph Smith

Garland Ralph Smith of Raleigh died November 30, 2011 after a period of declining health. He was born on September 20, 1927, the son of G. Artis Smith and Carrie Messer Smith of Raleigh. A Raleigh native, Garland grew up in the Angier community in Harnett County. He entered the US Navy during World War ll and later joined First Citizens Bank and Trust Company where he served for over forty years before retiring as Executive Vice President. Garland was elected Chairman of the Wilson County Board of Commissioners for two terms, chaired the United Way, and served on the NC Law Review Board. A member of the Hayes Barton United Methodist Church in Raleigh, Garland attended the Cameron Sunday School class. He was a Mason and a member of the Sudan Temple. Garland was predeceased by his loving wife of forty-seven years, Josephine Morris Smith, his parents, and siblings Mary McKinney and Loyce Smith. He is survived by his daughter Jessica, her husband Keith, and loyal, loving friend, Jean Mullen. Also surviving are sisters Myrtle Ray of Lillington; Eleanor Mills of Trinity; Shirley Martin of Elkhart, Indiana; brothers Ralston Smith of Supply; Grover Smith of Lillington; L. S. Buddy Smith of Angier; and Charles Smith of Wilson. A memorial service will be held at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 3rd at 2pm.