Anthony Warren Smith, 69, Bristol, Tenn., passed away on Sunday, January 10, 2016, after a short but courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Elizabethton and lived in the Indian Creek area of Carter County. He was the son of Earl Smith and the late Edna Webb Smith.
In addition to his mother, Anthony was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Charlene Smith, and his younger brother, Mark Smith.
Those left to cherish his memory include his father, Earl Smith; his daughters, Tonya Smith and Robin Sayers and husband, Jerry; grandchildren, Kaitlyn Cox, Landon Sayers and Bowie “Bo” Sayers; one brother, Mike Smith and wife, Beverly; and several nieces and nephews.
Anthony graduated from Elizabethton High School in 1965 and joined the United States Army in 1966, serving as a Light Weapons Specialist in the First Infantry Division. He served honorably in Vietnam from 1966-1967 and received several decorations including the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Vietnam Service Medal. Upon finishing his tour in Vietnam, he was honorably discharged with the rank of SP4 in 1968 and then served in the United States Army Reserve until 1972. He was a Lifetime Member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and served as Sergeant-At-Arms for Chapter 244.
After his military service, Anthony attended college and was employed by North American Rayon and Raytheon before retiring. He was the most dedicated and loving husband, father and grandfather and greatly enjoyed spending time with his family. He spent the last three years as the primary caregiver for his wife.
His hobbies included walking his dogs, hanging out with his pet cats, watching NFL football, especially the Dallas Cowboys, swimming in his pool, relaxing outside on his porch, watching Western shows and movies as well as scary movies, listening to oldies but goodies, cars, some types of woodworking, Civil War history, literature, and riding around in the country. He could tell some really funny tales and jokes, too. Anthony adored his grandchildren and loved watching them play. He was highly skilled at cooking hams and turkeys, as well as making egg salad, too.
The family will greet friends to share memories on Thursday, January 14, from 5:30 p.m. until a memorial service at 7 p.m. in the Sunrise Chapel of Tetrick Funeral & Cremation Services, Johnson City. A graveside and committal service with military honors will be held on Friday, January 15, at Mountain Home National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Pallbearers will be chosen from family and friends. Everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery by 2:20 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 in memory of Anthony Warren Smith, Bristol, TN 37620. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.tetrickfuneralhome.com.
Tetrick Funeral & Cremation Services, 3001 Peoples Street, Johnson City, TN 37604, (423-610-7171), is honored to serve the Smith family during this difficult time.