Charles "Smitti" Lowell Smith

Charles Lowell (Smitti) Smith went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, December 23, 2023 with his family by his side. He passed peacefully from complications of heart disease and pulmonary fibrosis. He was a loving husband, a caring dad and a doting papaw. Lowell graduated from Maryville High School in 1965 and enlisted in the Navy following in his father's footsteps. He became a jet engine mechanic and served 2 years at the Naval Air Facility at Andrews Airforce Base. He volunteered to serve in Vietnam. He was assigned to the Light Attack Squadron VAL-4 and became part of the "Black Ponies" squadron, the first of this type flying Rockwell OV-10 A Broncos. He worked at Rentenbach Engineering and Cherokee Aviation prior to working 35 years at TVA. He enjoyed reading, cruising and traveling with his wife. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. In the 70's & 80's he played drums for the Midnight Reflections Band and various other bands. Lowell never met a stranger and left lasting friendships wherever he went. He had a funny sense of humor, was dedicated to his family and his job, loved Jesus and prayed daily for our country and military. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jessie L. Smith; father, Charles L. Smith Sr.; son, Chad Smith. Lowell is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years and caregiver, Deborah (Debbie) Best Smith; daughter, Tammi Smith and fiancé, David Long; son, Corey Smith and wife, Elizabeth; grandchildren, Logan and Allison Smith; sister, Terri L. Monaghan of Myrtle Beach; sister-in-law, Evelyn King; several nephews and nieces; and longtime childhood friend, Lee Chambers. Family and friends may visit Smith Funeral Home to sign the register book from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM on Friday, December 29, 2023. Per Lowell's request, a private family service is planned. Special thanks to Dr.Kravitz, Dr. Raj, Dr. George, the CV-ICU nurses Connor, Blaise, Brandon, Shem and Chaplain Rachel at UT Hospital. Donations may be made in his honor to HonorAir Knoxville, PO Box 12990, Knoxville, TN  37912.