Benjamin Clay Smith

Benjamin “Clay” Smith, age 52, of Pink Hill, NC, passed away on August 25, 2025. Clay was born July 10, 1973, and throughout his life he was known by many nicknames—“Turnip Top,” “Clipper,”, “Spanky”, and “Daddy Clay”—each a reflection of the bonds and stories he shared with those around him.

Clay lived a life that was both complicated and sincere, marked by determination, generosity, and a fun-loving, good-hearted nature. He was outspoken, never afraid to speak his mind, yet often quick to extend a helping hand. To those who knew him best, he will be remembered as a man who gave freely of himself and who carried his own struggles with resilience.

He is preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Benjamin Junior “BJ” and Estelle Byrd Smith, Henry Clay and Ruby Smith; his uncle, Stanley Smith; his aunt, Dean Davis; and his son, Damian Nobles.

Clay leaves behind a circle of loved ones who will carry his memory forward: his parents, Dempsey and Peggy Smith; his brother, Dempsey Smith, Jr. “DJ” and wife Dana; nieces, Kenly Long and husband Bryan, Hillary Hill and husband Michael, and Bailey VanderBogart and husband Logan; and great-nephew and nieces, Isaac, Jennings, and Dianna Long. He is also survived by aunts and uncles: Evelyn Lambert, Sue and Kendall Rouse, Mickey Smith, Harold and Lorraine Smith, Donna and Neal Hill, and Woody Smith; and a host of cousins.

Special people in Clay’s life include Melanie Dixon, the mother of his son, and friend, Michelle Thomas.

Clay’s mother holds to the comfort of scripture from Job:

“For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease. Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground; yet through the scent of water it will bud and bring forth boughs like a plant.” (Job 14:7-9)

“If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come.” (Job 14:14)

These words reflect her hope for renewal and eternal peace.

The last four Sundays of his life, found him in church. Clay’s life was not without its struggles, but it was rich with love, friendships, and the unmistakable impact he had on those who knew him. His family and friends will remember him for his determination, his generosity, the way he lived with both grit and heart, and a contagious laugh.

Visitation will be held from 11-12 on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Pink Hill Funeral Home.  Funeral service will follow, beginning at 12.  Burial will be held at the Leary-Smith Family Cemetery on Ash Davis Road, Pink Hill, NC following the funeral service.

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