ELIZABETHTON - Lawrence Tom Smith, Sr., 70, 105 Pleasant Beach Rd., Elizabethton, died Saturday, June 24, 2006 in the Johnson City Medical Center after a brief illness. A native of Carter County, he was the son of the late Ernest and Nannie Smith. Mr. Smith was a member of Range Christian Church and a retired fireman for the City of Elizabethton after thirty-three years service. Tom was a proud member of "The Wataugans" outdoor drama for eight years. He loved acting in the drama and loved his fellow actors. His friendly, down-to-earth manner made him a popular member of the large cast. Whether performing in the drama or helping spread the word about the play, "The Wataugans" was an important part of Tom's life. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Sarah Mae McKinney Smith. Survivors include his wife, Charlotte May Smith, two sons and daughters-in-law, Lawrence Thomas "Tommy" Jr. and Debbie Smith of Knoxville, and Timothy Lee and Valerie Smith of Colorado. Four grandchildren, Jacob Smith, Joshua Smith, Troy Smith and Nathaniel Smith. Three great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Ginger Lewis Of Elizabethton and Wanda Smith of Georgia. One brother, Ted Smith of Hampton. Step-children, Dennis and Lee Lyons, Russell and Lori Lyons, David and Beth Lyons, Phillip and Chris Lyons and Janie and Chris Rice and Sue Ann Plumer all of Elizabethton. Two special Grandchildren, Britney Rice and Shay Plumer, twelve step-grandchildren and special friend, Cheryl Smith.

Funeral Services will be conducted at 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 27, 2006 in Memorial Funeral Chapel with Mr. Jim Curtis and Rev. Butch Stout officiating. John Ruetz and Chad Bogart will present the eulogy. Graveside and Interment will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday in Happy Valley Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be members of the Cast of The Wataugans and nephews and grandsons. Honors will be by the Elizabethton Fire Department Honor Guard. The family will receive friends from 6–8 p.m. Tuesday in the chapel prior to the service hour. Friends may also call at the residence at any time. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral chapel at 10:20 a.m. Wednesday to go to the cemetery. Online condolences to the Smith family may be addressed to [email protected]. Memorial Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.