Grover Artis Smith Jr, 84, of Lillington, NC died surrounded by family on November 6, 2015. Faith, family and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others were the most important things to Grover.  He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue.

He was born in Raleigh, graduated from Angier High School, attended Campbell University, received his Bachelor's degree from Florida Southern, his Master's and Doctorate degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and a theology degree from Southeastern Theological Seminary. Â

Grover's professional and community contributions were many.  He was an educator with transcending ability, teaching students from primary grades through Doctoral programs.  Educational leadership positions included principalships in Greenwich, CT and headmaster roles at Ravenscroft School and Oak Ridge Military Academy in NC.  He served as Director of the Peace Corps in Cameroon West Africa, Rotary Club President, as well as Mayor and Commissioner for the town of Lillington. Â

In his earlier years, he helped to start two churches in NC and continued to serve as a Sunday school teacher and Deacon in his local church.  He was the recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award, a Distinguished Alumni Award from Campbell University, and Man of the Year Award from the town of Lillington.

He was preceded in death by his parents Grover Artis and Carrie Messer Smith, sister Mary McKinney and brothers G. Loyce and Garland Smith.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Esther; Daughters Miriam Henderson and husband Robbie, Sharon May and husband Fred, Carrie Vineyard and husband Wayne, and Sonya Smith Beacham. Grandchildren include Lauren and Elizabeth May, Chelsea Smith and Smith Beacham.

Surviving siblings include Myrtle Ray, Ralston Smith and wife Jackie, Pat Mills and husband Norman, Shirley Martin and husband Jim, LS "Buddy" Smith and wife Faye, Charles L. Smith and wife Mary Alice and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will take place on Thursday, November 12th at 2pm at Lillington Baptist Church.  The family will receive visitors from noon to 1:45 prior to the service in the church fellowship hall.  A private burial will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bible Broadcasting Network, PO Box 7300 Charlotte, NC 28241 or Duke Hospice Hock Family Pavilion, 4023 North Roxboro Rd, Durham, NC 27704.
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A celebration of life will take place on Thursday, November 12th at 2pm at Lillington Baptist Church. The family will receive visitors from noon to 1:45 prior to the service in the church fellowship hall. A private burial will follow.