Percy Hamilton Smith, Jr.

Percy Hamilton Smith, Jr., affectionately known as “P.H.,” of Morehead City, North Carolina, passed from this life peacefully surrounded by family on May 24, 2026, at the age of 94. Born in Franklin County in 1932, he was the son of the late Percy Hamilton Smith and Mozelle Leonard Smith.

P.H. graduated from Edward Best High School in 1950 and proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War era from 1953 to 1955, including two years stationed in Austria and Germany. In 1957, he married the love of his life, Mary Sue Hall, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned 68 years.

Throughout his career, P.H. worked with General Electric, Holden Technical Institute (now Wake Technical Community College), McLean Trucking Company, and Walker Martin Electric before beginning a long and meaningful tenure with the North Carolina Baptist State Convention in 1967. He faithfully served there for 27 years until his early retirement in 1994.

A devoted follower of Christ, P.H. dedicated much of his life to serving others through his church and community. As a longtime member of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Raleigh, he served as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, choir member, and youth volunteer. He also gave his time to the Raleigh Optimist Club and the North Raleigh Exchange Club. He remained active in church life throughout the years at Rocky Hock Baptist Church in Edenton, Woodland Park Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Parkview Baptist Church in Morehead City. One of his most cherished memories was serving as “Deputy Dog” during Youth Week at Caswell Baptist Assembly—a role that showcased his sweet nature and heart for the next generation. PH mastered the art of the “simple life.” He could often be found rocking on his screened porch, perhaps with an Oreo Blizzard in hand, or meticulously tending to his yard, which he took great pride in keeping neat and tidy. He found peace in the harmonies of the Gaither’s and other gospel music, but his greatest harmony was found in his family. Whether he was cheering at a grandkid’s ballgame, attending school or hosting holiday events, or enjoying a meal out with the whole family, P.H. was happiest simply being present for those he loved. Those who knew P.H. will remember his quiet generosity, steadfast kindness, humble spirit, and unwavering commitment to putting others before himself.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Sue Hall Smith; his children, John Smith (Patti) and Sara Stevens (Keith); seven grandchildren, Megan Tolar (Jason), Shane Stevens (Morgan), Chase Stevens (Megan), Parker Smith (Marie), Blake Stevens, Mary Hayden Guest (Caleb), and Savannah Stevens; and three great-grandchildren, Carson Tolar, Wesley Stevens, and Micah Stevens.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Parkview Baptist Church of Morehead City, the staff of Carteret Landing Assisted Living, and Carteret Gentiva Hospice for the compassionate care and support shown to P.H., especially during the later years of his life.

A service to celebrate P.H.’s life will be held at 1:00pm on Monday, June 8, 2026 at Red Bud Baptist Church, Castalia, NC. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, a ministry dear to P.H.’s heart.

Arrangements made by Just Cremations in Morehead City, NC.

All condolences may be sent to justcremations.net.