Kelly E. Smith

October 24, 1961 - September 6, 2017

Kelly Smith, 55, left us on Wednesday, September 6, 2017. Kelly was born in Kingsport, TN on October 24, 1961 but has lived in the Raleigh-Cary area for 30+ years. He was the son of Lonnie C. (1935-2009) and Sonya H. (Toni) Smith, currently of Cary, NC. Kelly graduated from Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, TN in 1979. From his very first job in middle school as a newspaper carrier until he left us, Kelly was an avid collector of audio electronics, especially vintage stereo equipment. He loved music - from blues to bluegrass, from jazz to classic soul, and everything in between. He most especially enjoyed live music, and some of his favorite times were those spent with friends at live music concerts or local gigs. Kelly was a private person, but he was honored to have and respect several close friends and to have the love and support of his family. He was fortunate his entire life to live by his own standards and to be his own person. And, he loved his sweet tea from Bojangles and University of TN football. Go Vols! Kelly is survived by his mother Sonya, and sister, Pamela S. Broadwell, also of Cary, NC, and his special cousins in East TN. A gathering of friends for Kelly will be announced soon. Thanks to Wake Funeral & Cremation for their services, and a special thank you to the staff of Transitions LifeCare in Raleigh for their kindness in caring for Kelly. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kelly's name to Transitions LifeCare in Raleigh.