Lester Edward Smith

Lester Edward Smith, 94, of Winston-Salem passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Forsyth Medical Center. He was born in Corning, New York, on May 23, 1930, to the late Elwin Taft Smith and Mildred Grace Davis.  He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.   He joined the United States Air Force in 1948, married Mabel Ferreira in July 1950, and went on to have three daughters where he made sure he made a loving home for all of them in each of the many places he was stationed in the United States and overseas.  

Lester had a distinguished 22-year career in the United States Air Force, rapidly advancing in rank and retiring as a Major at the age of 39.  He defended our country's airways during his time with the USAF, participated in weapons and missile testing, and passed his knowledge on to others as a Naval Air Station educator, air traffic controller, tower control chief, and squadron commander. 

Although he retired from the USAF at 39, Lester never really retired.  He went on to new successes as an antique dealer and as a realtor/broker.   He was an outstanding fisherman, golfer, bridge player, and most recently, Rummikub player. He was a man of integrity and honor. He was respected.  He was willing to be a friend to anyone – (a friend to anyone that would have him, he would joke!) He had a great sense of humor; and was kind to everyone.  He was a leader in diversity and inclusion before it became “a thing.”

In a nutshell, bottom line, he loved life, and he lived it to his fullest.  He was the best provider and protector any family could have, and he was the best friend that any person could ask for.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Mabel; and his brother, Newton.   He is celebrated by his family - three beloved daughters, Heidi Smith, Holly Simpson (David Simpson), and Cathy Smith; two grandchildren, David Walter Swing Jr. and Brianna Austine Swing; one great-grandchild, Ava Mabel Swing; and his siblings, Beverly Lincoln and Elnora Lott "Lolly".  

Immense gratitude to the nurses and doctors at Forsyth Medical Center who took care of him in his final fighting days, to the staff at his residence Heritage Woods where he lived the past 18 months, to the staff with Home Instead, and to all of those who looked after him.

Your life was a blessing, our memory a treasure; You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

A graveside service with full military honors will be conducted Monday, June 3, 2024, at 12:00PM at Parklawn Memorial Gardens - Chapel of Faith.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Shepherd Center of Winston-Salem, 1700 Ebert St, Winston-Salem, NC 27103.

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the Smith family.