Arthur Ronald “Ron” Smith, Jr.

Arthur Ronald “Ron” Smith, Jr. was born on May 19, 1949, in Baltimore, MD and passed away on August 25, 2024, in Beaufort, NC.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents Ron and Sally, his brother-in-law John, and his sister-in-law Kate. 

Those who remain to cherish his memory are his wife of 53 years, Susan; daughter, Sarah; son, Josh (wife Nance); granddaughter, Meredith; brother, Bob; sister, Kathy (husband Randy; sons, Eric and Patrick); sister, Barb (sons, Alex (wife Natalie) and Sam)); and sister-in-law, Mary (husband Rick; sons, Matt (wife Michelle) and Zac (wife Jane)). He was proud to have many nieces and nephews: Emma, Caden, Kingston, Jaxon, Callie, Evie, Luka, and Malia.

Ron was incredibly proud of his role as a husband and father. He was selfless in this capacity, often spending weekends taking his children to soccer tournaments and horse shows. Ron had a sharp mind and enjoyed playing word puzzles with his family on a daily basis. He loved watching Jeopardy, a pastime that spanned multiple Smith generations, and he was always a worthy competitor with an extraordinary memory for random trivia facts. He lived a full life, traveled frequently, and relished opportunities to converse in fluent Spanish. His favorite pastimes included fishing, boating, and bird watching (sometimes all three at the same time). He always prided himself for being handy and during one phase of his professional life founded and operated his own handyman company. He proved that it's never too late to pursue education by returning to school later in life and earning a bachelor’s degree from High Point University, as well as a Master of Business Administration from Wake Forest University. Upon retirement in 2018, he relocated with Susan to Beaufort, NC, where he became a beloved member of the local community. Everyone who spoke of him mentioned how much they loved him and his kind nature. Ron was also a father to three dogs (Abby, Gus, and Max) and enjoyed nothing more than walking them along the shore of Taylor’s Creek in Beaufort, NC, while watching the passing boats. Ron was a remarkable man who lived an interesting and fulfilling life. While he will be terribly missed, his impact on those who loved him will be felt for decades to come.

A celebration of life will be held in the Spring of 2025 in Beaufort, NC. Specific details will be announced at a later date. 

As an expression of sympathy, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bonehenge Whale Center, where Ron volunteered during its construction. Bonehenge Whale Center, 275 West Beaufort Road Ext., Beaufort, NC 28516 or at bonehenge.org.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.