Obituary: Lafayette “Fate” Smith
Lafayette “Fate” Smith, 95, passed away Monday, July 22, 2019. One of seventeen children, Fate was born February 18, 1924 in Lenoir County to the late Quincy Adams Smith and Mamie Croom Smith. In addition to his parents, Fate was preceded in death by a daughter, Gale S. Turner; and a grandson, Herbert Adams Smith, Jr. Part of America’s greatest generation, Fate served his country with dedication and honor. A member of the United States Army, he fought for his country’s freedom during World War II.
Only eight hours before the official ending of the war was declared, he was wounded by enemy fire. Fate’s efforts on behalf of his fellow man led to his awarding of the Purple Heart. Fate was one who never met a stranger. There was no one that he wouldn’t strike up a conversation with. With Fate, you never had to wonder where he stood. He was one to tell it exactly like it was. He was a jokester with a keen sense of humor, and picking on you was one of the many ways he showed he cared.
He claimed that he lived by the “Indian way”, which meant if someone did something good for you, you would do something good for them in return. Fate’s positive attitude was contagious and he was always happy. Most people remember Fate from his 47 years working in the Men’s Department at Brody’s. Some of Fate’s favorite times were spent around the card table. A good game of poker or gin brought out his competitive spirit. He lived by the creed, “You go with the hand that you’re dealt.” There was nothing better to Fate than time spent at the beach, especially when good seafood was on the menu.
Fate also loved automobiles and was intent on driving a new one each year. Fate was a proud family man and thought the world of his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was always supportive and eager to offer an encouraging word. His family carry precious memories of times shared together. The greatest comfort they have is knowing that Fate received Christ as his Lord and Savior. He faithfully attended Hickory Grove United Methodist Church.
A service to celebrate and honor Fate’s life will be held Friday, July 26, 2019 at 11 a.m. from Rouse Funeral Home. Burial with military honors will be held at Westview Cemetery. Family and friends will be received Friday from 10-11. Fate is survived by his wife of 13 years, Emogene Williams; five children, Jenny S. Thompson, Bobby Fate Smith, Herbert Adams Smith and wife, Brenda, Betty White, and Brenda W. Hussey and husband, Mike; 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.
The last of his generation, l6 of Fate’s siblings preceded him in death. They were nine brothers, James Calvin Smith, Carey Smith, QA Smith, Stanley Smith, Phil Smith, Emmitt Smith, Norman Smith, Roger Smith and Charles Smith; and seven sisters, Mamie Smith Young, Hazel Smith Broom, Kathleen Smith Moore, Laura Smith Davis, Ruby Smith Singleton, Lib Smith Hill and Louise Smith Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials to assist veterans may be made to the USO-North Carolina, 600 Airport Road-Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27560. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home.
