Charles “Will” William Smith, 43, of Salisbury, North Carolina, passed away on September 13, 2026.

Known to his family and friends as Will, he was a true jack-of-all-trades. He worked in HVAC for many years and was the kind of person who could usually figure out how to fix, build, or make just about anything. He was never afraid to put his hands to work, especially when someone he cared about needed help.

But Will will be remembered for so much more than the work he did. He was someone who was always willing to lend a hand. If someone was in need, Will would do whatever he could to help,  even if it meant going without something himself. He was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to someone who needed it.

Will endured his own share of struggles, including living with significant pain following a wreck years ago. Yet, despite the pain he carried, he never allowed it to completely stop him from being there for his family. He continued to do what he could to support the people he loved, even when life wasn’t easy for him.

Above all else, Will was a family man. His love for his family ran deep, and his children were an important part of his life. He leaves behind memories, lessons, and a legacy that will continue through those who loved him.

Will was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Amy, in 2021; his beloved daughter, Payton, in 2022; his infant son; his aunt, Wanda Hosch, in 2025; his uncle, David Hosch, in 2013; Philip Hosch, in 2021; and Randy Hosch, in 2026 Jamie Usher, in 2023.

He is survived by his mother, Laura “Starr” Johnson; his sons, Gabriel and his partner, Leen; William; and Rylan, all of Salisbury; his sister, Jennifer; and his niece, Lillian.

Will is also survived by extended family who were an important part of his life, including Dwayne Hosch, Beth Peninger, and Christopher Hosch, all of Salisbury; Kevin Hosch of South Carolina; Shebbie Bristow of Arkansas; Linda and Tommy Hawkins of Salisbury; Jeffrey Usher, of Salisbury, Quintin and Kristy Bristow of Arkansas; Michelle Eversol and her children, Tavan and Isaiah, of Arkansas; his stepmother, Anita Vincent, of Salisbury; his stepsiblings, Amber Trexler and Cody McDowell, both of Salisbury; Holly Eagle of Salisbury; John Parker II of Salisbury, who was like a brother to Will; John Parker III of Salisbury, who was like a nephew to Will; Bessie Hill of Salisbury; Cookie and Reggie Phillips of Salisbury; and Norman Blackwell of Salisbury.

He also leaves behind extended family and friends who will forever remember his willingness to help, his generosity, and the impact he had on their lives.

For those who loved Will, there is comfort in knowing that he is no longer carrying the pain and struggles that followed him through this life. After years of missing Amy and Payton, perhaps his greatest reunion is that he is finally with them again.

While those left behind must learn how to live with the emptiness his passing leaves behind, Will’s memory will continue through his sons, his family, and every person who was fortunate enough to experience his kindness.

His story here may have come to an end, but his love did not.

Rest peacefully, Will. You don’t have to fight anymore. Give Amy and Payton a hug for all of us. Until we meet again.

Funeral services for Charles “Will” William Smith will be held at Solid Rock Church of God, with Pastor Samuel Washington officiating.

Saturday, September 19, 2026
2:00 PM
Solid Rock Church of God
1004 Locke St.
Salisbury, NC 28144

In lieu of flowers, donations to assist with funeral and cremation expenses may be made to Carolina Cremation in Salisbury, North Carolina.