Richard James Smith, Sr., 92, of Louisburg, passed away Monday morning, July 21, 2025 at WakeMed.

Richard was the son of the late Marcellus Coleman Smith and Lula Belle Hedgepeth Smith. He was preceded in death by his brothers Downey Smith, Egbert Smith, Joe Smith, and Wilton Smith; and sister, Syble Ball.

Richard was the youngest of six children of Coleman and Lula Smith of the Hickory Rock community. He was a graduate of Edward Best High School, and completed his bachelor's degree at High Point College in 1960. In 1957, he married the love of his life, Anne Strickland. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. After returning home, he worked with the NC DMV for more than 30 years as a traffic safety instructor, where he earned the title of "School Bus Man." He has been a member of Louisburg Baptist Church since 1968.

A memorial service was held at Louisburg Baptist Church on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 11 a.m. with Rev. David Averette officiating. The family received friends one hour prior to the service, and other times at the home. Burial followed the service at Lancaster Memorial Park.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Anne Strickland Smith; son and daughter-in-law, Rick and Wynn Smith; granddaughter Amanda Smith Pfahler; and great-grandson Nikolai Pfahler.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Louisburg Baptist Church handicap ramp fund, 302 N. Main St., Louisburg, NC 27549.

Arrangements are by Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, Louisburg. www.stricklandfuneralhome.net

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