Robert Woodson Smith

Robert Woodson Smith, 81, of Reidsville, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, July 15, 2026. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Wilkerson Funeral Home with Rev. Ralph Clayton officiating. The family will greet friends briefly following the service, as well as at other times at the home.

Woodson was born in Rockingham County to the late John “Elisha” Smith and Bessie Mae Wall Smith. Woodson was a hardworking and dedicated man who took great pride in all that he did. Throughout his career, he served as Vice President of Golden Belt Manufacturing Company and later as Procurement Manager at Commonwealth. Most recently, he served as General Manager of Morrisette Paper Converting. He was especially proud of his service as a reserve deputy with the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Department, a role he faithfully held for more than 60 years.

Woodson took his role as the patriarch of the family very seriously and fiercely loved and protected those he held dear. He loved spending time on the farm and treasured time spent with his family and friends. Above all, he loved being “Papa” and was incredibly proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of his fondest times were spent with his family on his pontoon boat, where he was affectionately known as “Chief." Woodson will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, Woodson was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald Ray Smith, Melvin Smith and wife Phyllis; sister, Mary Ann Smith Cox, and her husband, Preston; and best friends, Charles Tillotson and Wayne Garrison.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Carol Smith; daughter, Lisa Ellington and husband, Gary; son, Jason Smith and wife, Brandy; grandchildren, Samantha Comer and husband, Johnathan, Katie Martin, Logan Smith-Largen and husband, Matthew, Maddie Claeys and husband, Bryant, Kendall Ellington, and Samuel Smith; great-grandchildren, Leland Smith, John Luke Comer, Kayden Allen, Amelia Claeys, Natalie Claeys, Myles Largen, and one Largen baby girl on the way; sister-in-love, Johnnie Faye Holbrook; a host of nieces and nephews; too many close friends to mention by name; and his beloved cows.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ancora Compassionate Care (formerly Hospice), P.O. Box 281, Wentworth, NC 27375.