Charles Clayborne Smith

Charles Clayborne Smith, born on January 26, 1933, in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Ruben and Dorothy Moore Smith passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, in the same city that he called home for so many years.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Charles served during the Korean War, a chapter of his life that he would later immortalize in his book entitled "The Stragglers," where he shared his personal experiences and reflections from that pivotal time in history. After his military service, he retired from General Electric Appliance Park, contributing to the company and its community.

Charles was not only a dedicated worker but also an active member of Highview Baptist Church, where his faith guided him through life’s challenges and enriched his relationships with others. His love for travel was evident in the many missions he undertook across the globe, showcasing his commitment to service and a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of those around him. He traveled to Russia, Latin America and the Caribbean.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.

He leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memories: his children, Debra Ann Smith of Louisville, Kentucky and Charles Richard Smith (Jennie) of Scottsdale Arizona; grandchildren and great grandchildren; Jessica Hendricks (Joshua) of St. Louis Missouri, and their children Stella, Graham and Mia, Kate McMillen (Craig) of Scottsdale, Arizona and their children Owen and Annabelle, Jasen Workman of Kentucky, Neil Naiser of Denver Colorado, Hannah Naiser (Clayton) of Mt. Washington, Kentucky and their son Grayson Hare; brothers, John Cobb (Norma) of Nashville,TN and Wade Cobb of Greensburg, KY; sisters, Elta Lee Cobb of Montgomery, TX and Mattie Ruth Young of Columbia, TN ; several nieces and nephews to mourn his passing.

Charles Clayborne Smith will be remembered not only for his service and contributions but also for the love he shared with his family and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones.

His funeral will be 5:00 p.m. Thursday March 12, 2026 at Maraman- Billings Funeral Home in Shepherdsville. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. prior to the service. a graveside service will be held 12:30 p.m. Friday March 13, 2026 at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff.