Charles Philip (Phil) Smith passed away suddenly on August 31, 2024. Phil was born on February 22, 1939, in Mt. Airy, North Carolina to Laila and Frank Smith.
He graduated from Mt. Airy High School and continued his education at Penn State University where he was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Phil was president of his fraternity during his senior year. He also was on the school gymnastic team when he graduated in 1961. He received his MBA in Business Administration from the University of Colorado in 1972.
After college he was a 1st Lieutenant in the US Army. We cannot confirm or deny that he participated in top-secret green beret activities where a green beret and engineer were partnered up together in two man teams to infiltrate enemy lines and perform actions.
Phil was a multi board-certified Civil Engineer in the states of CA, UT, FL, ID, CO and NM. Phil shared his passion and commitment with many young Engineers and modeled an exemplary work ethic and a lifelong pursuit of learning. Phil considered the 1-95 reconstruction with the Florida Department of Transportation as one of his greater feats as a consultant manager during 1988-1991.
Beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, mentor and friend! Phil was a hero and provider to his entire family. He helped people in need and sponsored many charities giving monetary donations. Compassion International was very dear to his heart as well as Food for the Poor, Care and No Kid Goes Hungry.
Phil loved Jesus, His Lord and Savior and attended Crosswater Church in Ponte Vedra. At an early age he was raised in the Methodist church. While in high school he was president of the youth group at his church. He was a member of the Jaycees and Big Brothers of America where he mentored teenage boys and he was a member of the men's club in Del Webb.
Phil enjoyed many activities, including snow skiing, tennis, pickleball, biking, hiking and most of all gardening! He is survived by his wife, Karen of 59 years; daughter, Tanya Sanders; son, Doug Smith; two sisters: Betsy Menefee of PA, Sue Smith of NC, and he had four grand-children: Riley, Jake, Bella and Annelise. The family is planning a Celebration of Life at Crosswater Church in Ponte Vedra on Sunday, December 1, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
