Larry Walter Smith

Larry Walter Smith, 79, of Hickory, passed away Monday, December 15, 2025, at Carolina Caring Catawba Valley Hospice House. Born September 11, 1946, he was the son of the late Lonnie Herbert Smith and Thelma Elenora Jones Smith.

Larry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who cherished time with his family. At a young age, he proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was a house painter by trade, working for many years as a painting contractor and later with Witherspoon Heating and Cooling. He loved going fishing, was a great storyteller, and had a special gift for making people laugh. His warmth, humor, and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gladys "Vickie" Smith of Hickory; his daughter, Crystal Crafton (Bobby) of Claremont; his daughter-in-law, Meloney Smith of Hickory; his grandchildren, Piper Smith and Gage Smith; his brothers, Donald Smith Sr. (Rose) of Hildebran and Jimmy Smith (Barbara) of Newton; and his sister Carolyn Rozzelle of Hickory.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth Smith; his brothers, Tommy Smith, Dale Smith, and Johnny Smith; and his sister, Judy Smith.

The Celebration of Life will be from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at Caring Cremations, 609 Highland Ave SE, Hickory, NC 28602.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. The Smith family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.