Bobby Raymond Smitherman, 79 , of Gastonia, NC, passed away May 5, 2023 in Levine & Dickson Hospice House, Huntersville, NC, following an extended illness.

He was born November 3, 1943, in Boone, NC, a son of the late Earl Raymond and Dovie M. (Younce) Smitherman Combs.

He was a United States Marine Corps veteran. He was a retired machinist and supervisor for Westinghouse. He was a member of American Legion Post #243 Bessemer, NC and a life member of the Absher-Flowers V.F.W. Post # 9337 Gastonia, NC and the United Veterans of American Post #1, Gastonia, NC. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and N.A.S.C.A.R.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Janet L. (Smith) Smitherman; son, Randall B. Smitherman of Gastonia, NC.; brother Joseph Mark Smitherman and Michael Smitherman; step-brothers, William H. and Charles E. Brandt; step-sister, Carolyn Sue.

Graveside service will be 1 p.m. ~ Wednesday, May 10, 2023, in Liverpool Cemetery, LeRoy, WV, with Rev. Danny McVey officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Jackson County Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to the Liverpool United Methodist Church Cemetery Custodial Fund, C/O Melody Smith, 85 Thaxton Lane, Cottageville, WV 25239. Arrangements provided by Casto Funeral Home Evans, WV.