Charles Smith

Charles Edward Smith, 76, passed away peacefully on September 3, 2026 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 11, 2026 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Corsicana. Graveside Service will be held 12:30 p.m. Friday at Fatima Cemetery near Abbott. Areception will follow at the Abbott Parish Hall.

Born on January 7, 1950, in Rosebud, Texas. He is the eldest of 6 siblings. Charles lived a life anchored in faith, family, and steadfast generosity. He attended Immaculate Conception Catholic School in Grand Prairie through the eighth grade and went on to graduate from Grand Prairie High School.

Above all, Charles was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a humble disciple of God, allowing his faith in the Catholic Church to guide every step of his life. He was blessed to share nearly 48 wonderful years of marriage and deep devotion with his beloved wife, Mary Lou Smith.

Throughout his career in sales, including his work with Farm Bureau Insurance and Ennis Ford, Charles was known for his integrity, warm demeanor, and unwavering commitment to serving others. His spirit of service extended deeply into his community, particularly through his dedication and care for Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Corsicana, Texas. He was an active member and past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Monsignor Graffeo Council 5211. Charles used his talents to grow the Catholic community and was instrumental in the organization and construction of the St. Anthony Pavilion. He was also one of the founders of the Collins Catholic School golf team in Corsicana.

Charles was, above all, a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in being surrounded by the people he loved. He cherished every opportunity to gather together-whether it was a family reunion, birthday celebration, sporting event, sightseeing trip, Sunday dinner, or a friendly round of golf. For Charley, it was never simply about the occasion; it was about the time spent together and the memories made along the way.

He took immense pride and delight in watching his nieces and nephews grow, and later his grandchildren, as they discovered their own paths and accomplished so much in life. He especially treasured the opportunity to share the lessons he had learned, always eager to offer guidance, encouragement, and a little wisdom when it was needed. His love for his family was evident in the joy he found in their lives, and his greatest happiness came from seeing them grow, succeed, and enjoy life together.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Charles found great joy in coaching. From guiding teams for his younger siblings in his youth to coaching his own children, he was a "forever coach" and a constant advocate for bringing people together through sports and golf.

Charles is survived by his cherished wife, Mary Lou; his daughters and their families: Erin Appl and her husband, Bill, along with their children: Charles "Hank", Jack, Zeke, and Zack Appl, and step-son Will Appl IV; Abigail Payne and her husband, Dustin, along with their children: Penelope and Cody Payne; Bonnie Smith and her children: Lucas, Leo, and Ella Pedraza, and son-in-law, Juan Pedraza. He is also survived by his siblings: Greg Smith and his wife, Barbara; Pam Meine and her husband, Ron; Judy Dandridge; Lisa Stefka and her husband, Larry; and David Smith and his wife, Ida. Additionally, he is remembered fondly by his brothers- and sisters-in-law: Richard and Robin Urbanovsky, Frank Urbanovsky, Edith Vick, Helen and Jon Szabuniewicz, Joyce and Wayne Stewart, and Ted Urbanovsky, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Merlene Smith; his parents-in-law, Alphons and Betty Urbanovsky; his brother-in-law, Doug Dandridge; his sister-in-law, Janet Urbanovsky; and his brother-in-law, James Vick.

Charles will forever be remembered for his selfless heart, enduring devotion to his family, competitive nature, and strength of faith rooted in the Catholic Church.