Benjamin Ernest Smith

   Benjamin Ernest Smith, 96, of 318 Old US Hwy 17, Hertford, NC, died Tuesday, March 15, 2016 in Sentara Albemarle Medical Center, Elizabeth City.

   Mr. Smith was born in Perquimans County on September 29, 1919, and was the son of the late Roscoe and Mollie Harrell Smith. Retired from Towe-Pike Grain & Supply Company where he worked for 35 years, he was a member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church. His later years were spent in the Woodville community where he enjoyed working in his vegetable garden, having coffe with friends, and keeping up with the stock market.

   In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of over 60 years, Maxine Griffin Smith; a special friend, Gaynell Gregory; his brother, Matthew Smith; his sister, Hazel Mae Pierce; and by a great-grandson, Christopher Jordan Byrum.

   Surviving are his daughters, Brenda Terranova-Umphlett (Charlie) and Betty Ruth Miller (Dick); four grandchildren, Kim Russell (Richard), Shannon Byrum (Chris), Bryan Miller (Dawn), and Benjamin F. Terranova (Glenda); five great-grandchildren, Adam Russell (Janna), Joshua Russell, Kayla Russell, Jacob Byrum, and Jordan Lee Byrum.

   Graveside services will be held Friday at 3:00 p.m. in Cedarwood Cemetery and will be officiated by his pastor, Gayla Collins. Friends may join the family Thursday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Miller & Van Essendelft, Funeral and Cremation Providers, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, and other times at Brenda and Charlie's home, 320 Old US Hwy 17, Hertford.

   In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Oak Grove United Methodist Church, 775 Chapanoke Road, Hertford, NC 27944, Attn: Leo Higgins.

   Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.