Russell Smith, 91, of Creswell, died peacefully early Tuesday morning, Aug. 21, 2018 at Chowan River Nursing and Rehab Center, Edenton.

Russ was born in Norfolk on Oct. 16, 1926. He was the son of the late Ela and Iran Vona Hassell Smith Johnson. He was first married to Betty Long who preceded him in death. His second wife, Jean Woolard Smith resides at Chowan River Nursing and Rehab. Russ was a minister for over 65 years. He preached in many states: North Carolina, Texas, Missouri, Virginia, West Virginia, New Mexico, Ohio and Nebraska. He served in the United States Army during WWII.

Surviving are three sons; Rusty Smith and wife, Bev, Jeff Smith and wife, Zotyne, Tim Smith and wife, Tracey all of Texas, two daughters; Jolene Roy of Texas and Melody Houchen an husband, Gil of Kansas, one brother, Bobby Smith and wife, Mae of Archdale; one step son: Mark Woolard, Jr. and wife, Jackie of Wilson, and one step daughter: Patricia Woodley of Ransomville: 10 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren; four step grandsons and nine step great grand-children and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Marlene Smith Manley of Virginia Beach and a son in-law, John Roy of Texas.

A memorial service will be held Saturday at 1 p.m., at Scuppernong Church of Christ in Creswell, with Cleve Edwards and Bill Griffin officiating.

Funeral services and burial will be held in Kermit, Texas. Time to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest that memorial contributions be directed to the Russell Smith Fund, MACU Foundation, Mid-Atlantic Christian University, 715 North Poindexter St., Elizabeth City, NC 27909

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Columbia where online sympathy messages can be directed to www.bryanfs.com