Odell Cooper Smith was born on November 25, 1949, in Gastonia, NC to Thomas O. Smith, Sr. and Dolly Smith. He peacefully passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2021, at Robin Johnson Hospice House in Dallas, NC.
Cooper's early life was spent in Gastonia, with his parents and siblings. He graduated from public schools and also attended some classes at Gaston College. He spent over 30+ years working for Central Transport where he retired many times.
Cooper loved his family. He enjoyed being the jokester to everyone, making those laugh in the room without even hardly saying anything. He also enjoyed cooking and helping his dad on the family farm. Cooper was very mild mannered, and quiet, but when he was around, his presence was known.
Cooper was preceded in death by his daughter Jennifer M. Smith.
Those left to cherish his memories are: his wife of 26 years, Catherine Smith of Gastonia, NC, his parents; Thomas Smith, Sr., and Dolly Smith of Gastonia, NC, mother-in-law; Hattie Mason of Gastonia, NC, two brothers; Randy Smith , Sr., Thomas O. Smith, Jr. (Patricia) of Gastonia, NC, his son; Dexter D. Smith of Fuerth, Germany, his daughter; Karen "Dawn" Smith (Donald) of Greensboro NC, four grandsons; Maurice C. Smith of Georgia, Brandon J. Smith of Charlotte, NC, Dequantis J. Smith of Georgia, Aquarius D. Smith of Greensboro, NC, one granddaughter; Aquasia B. Smith of Gastonia, NC; he also had four stepdaughters; Jamie (Dwindle) Patrick of Maryland, Kim (Darrin) Miller of Belmont, NC, Tamisha (Patrick) Minter of Gastonia, NC, LaToya McCollough of Maryland, and two stepsons; Derrick and Devon McCollough of Gastonia, NC, a host of nieces nephews, and other beloved relatives and friends.
Arrangement Are As Follow:
Private Graveside Service Armstrong Cemetery Gastonia, North Carolina
Date Friday, January 22, 2021
Public Viewing will be at the funeral home on Thursday from 3:00 until 9:00 P.M.
Praying for my family during this time of the transition of your son, father, brother, uncle and especially my cousin. Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. I pray the strength and peace of God continues to guide you through this journey. Joe and Kathy Chester, Columbia, SC (Eather Walker Thompson's grandson)
May the peace and love of Jesus Christ be with you at the time. We your strength in the Lord.
Dr. Raymond T. and Marcia Matthews and family!
We're sending our love, prayers and condolences to our family during this time of bereavement. Oh, how we wish we could be with you in person!!! However, know that we are definitely with you all in spirit. We all were reflecting on Cooper's love, "witty" personality and how we enjoyed each other over the years. He will be truly missed. From Eather Walker Thompson's children and grand-children.
Mr.Thomas Mrs.Dollie, Randy,and Thomas Jr. May God give you strength in the days to come. I grew up with you all and you are just like family. Praying that God will keep you.
Brenda and Libby Lowery
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Mr.Thomas and Mrs.Dollie, Randy and Thomas Jr. may God give you strength in the days to come. I grew up with you all and you are just like family. Praying that God will keep you.
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Mr. And Mrs. Thomas O. Smith, SR and Family, May your memories of your loved one live forever within your hearts and bring comfort, peace, joy and laughter. May God bless and keep you all. Lisa Michelle Simpson
I'm so sorry for your loss. Praying the God of all comfort helps you at this difficult time. (2 Corinthians 1:3,4 & Psalms 83:18). Jesus told us to pray for God's Kingdom because the Bible promises it will do away with death. (Revelation 21:4,5 & Daniel 2:44). Mary
To Thomas and Pat we are so sorry to hear about the passing of Cooper.I meant him when we were in school (Highland High).I have alot of memories of him funny guy. You all are in our prayers. Look to God for strength he will see you through. Alonzo and Linda W Byers Greensboro NC
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.