K.L. Smith's Obituary
KL Smith, 86, of Charlotte, NC passed away from natural causes on May 26, 2025.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, and friend. He retired in 2018 after working over 50 years of being in the trucking industry as a long haul driver. He was a proud Teamster and was always quick to stand up against injustice of any kind. He loved his wife and three girls the most but he also loved and enjoyed cars, fishing, gardening, bird watching, collecting coins, and all of the family pets through the years. Most of all he loved Betty’s cooking. He had a sense of humor, quick wit, and great chuckle that will be missed. Originally from Brandon Mississippi, he met the love of his life, Betty Bright Wilkinson of Louisville, Kentucky while stationed at Fort Knox during his time in the Army. They had just recently celebrated 60 years of marriage on April 10, 2025.
He is preceded in death by his parents King Lemuel Smith and Thelma Meek Smith, his son-in-law Craig Crawford, and his 10 siblings.
He is survived by his wife Elizabeth B. Smith of Charlotte, NC, daughters Amy Smith (Keith Koger) Charlotte, NC, Amanda Logan (Allan) of Huntersville, NC, Anne Crawford of Huntersville, NC, and granddaughter Lila Logan of Huntersville, NC.
Memorial service will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025 at 10:00 am at Aldersgate 3800 Shamrock Rd., Charlotte, NC 28215. The service will take place in the Fellowship Hall. A short reception will follow in the Ray Hall Living Room from 11:00 am until Noon.
In lieu of flowers please donate to your local food/soup kitchen or animal shelter in his remembrance.
Online condolences may be made at https://www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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