Robert Lee Smith III, age 60, of Shelby, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2024, at Duke University Hospital in Durham. He will be remembered for his positive attitude, gentle spirit, and zeal for life. Bob touched many lives with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith, and his presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Lee Smith, Jr., and his sisters, McLendon “Wendy” Smith Winstead and O’Kelley Smith Broadway. He is survived by his beloved wife of twenty-five years, Lisa Toms Smith of Shelby; his mother, Mary Wade O’Kelley Smith of Kings Mountain; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Barbara Toms of Shelby; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, David and Angela Lawrence of Hickory, and brother-in-law, Michael Winstead of Kings Mountain, and his special nieces and nephews. 

Bob graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in journalism. In 1997, he earned an architecture degree from the College of Architecture at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Serving as president of Talley and Smith Architecture since 2008, his work reflected his creativity, attention to detail, and passion for shaping spaces that served the community.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bob had a heart for service. He served as Chairman of the Shelby Exchange Club, was a founding board member for Christine’s Christian Home for girls and chaired the Cleveland County Historic Preservation Council. His dedication to his community was evident in his tireless efforts to improve the lives of others.

A follower of Christ, Bob was an active member of Elizabeth Baptist Church, where he found strength in his faith and fellowship. He was a former member of Westview Baptist Church where he served as chairman of the deacons. Bob also volunteered on numerous mission trips, sharing his love for others and spreading hope wherever he went.

A celebration of life service will be held at Elizabeth Baptist Church on Thursday, January 9 at 3:00 pm.  Following the service, there will be a reception in the Christian Life Center. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse at samaritanspurse.org or to Elizabeth Baptist Church at 301 North Post Road, Shelby, NC 28152. 

The Padgett and King Mortuary & Crematory of Forest City is in charge of arrangements and an online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com