Robert Frederick Smith “Fred”

Robert Frederick Smith “Fred”, 92, of Morehead City, North Carolina, died Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Pruitt Health - Crystal Coast, following a short illness.

Fred was born on May 8, 1933, in Sumter, South Carolina, to Raybon Foster Smith and Sarah Josephine Cooper Smith. His early years were spent in Sumter, until the age of 8 when the family moved to Fayetteville, NC where Fred attended public schools, graduating from Fayetteville High School (now Terry Sanford High School). He played the clarinet and saxophone in the high school band and in jazz ensembles and provided cartoons for the high school newspaper. His experience growing up during World War II in a military town was something he never forgot.

Fred served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict era aboard the aircraft carrier USS Block Island. His posts included (French) Morocco and other naval bases.

He later spent time in Fayetteville and Winston-Salem, NC. Most recently, Fred lived in Carteret County, NC where he enjoyed being close to the ocean and pursuing his interests in art, history and science.

Survivors include his sister, Sarah Josephine Hester (Jerry); brother, Michael Paul Smith; sister-in-law, Jean Langone Smith; nephews, Jason Smith, Andrew Smith (Robin), Patrick Smith (Angela), Daniel Smith (Natalina Oliverio and Chiara), and Ken Simonds (Marie); great-nieces, Charlie, Mira, and Emmy Smith; and great-nephews, Eli Smith and Grant Simonds.

He was predeceased in death by his parents; brother, Alan Smith; and nephew, Stephen Simonds.

At Fred’s request, there will be no service.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.