Charles Alexander Smith

Charles Alexander Smith, 83, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2020 at his home in Emporia. He was born December 28, 1936 in Cedar Pointe, Kansas the son of  E.P. and Virgie Ann Criger Smith.   Charles attended Neosho Rapids High School and graduated with the Class of 1954. Charles enlisted in the United States Navy on July 7, 1954 and proudly served until October 29, 1957. He was joined in marriage to Rene Geraldine Slack on August 24, 1961 in Emporia, Kansas. They made their home in Emporia and enjoy 52 years of marriage before Rene preceded him in death on September 15, 2013. Charles and Rene were avid motorcycle enthusiasts and were members of the Trail Winders Motorcycle Club of Neosho Rapids. His love for bikes often found him racing on area dirt tracks during his free time. Charles began his career with the Emporia Fire Department in 1961.  His services would span over twenty five years until his retirement in 1987. Charles began a second career as the owner and operator of Smith Sand & Gravel Company which he had for over 10 years.  Charles will live on in the hearts and  memories of his son, Charles “Allen” Smith of Eureka;  brothers, William Smith of Neosho Rapids and Gary Smith of Neosho Rapids; granddaughters, Salena F. Smith and Sabrina Dawn Smith. He was preceded in death by a sister, Rose Ann Coop; a granddaughter, Jasmine K. Smith; and a daughter, Sandy K. Smith.