Benny A. Smith

Benny Allen Smith was born on February 15,1945, in Durham, NC. and was the son of the late Noland Warren “Preacher” Smith and Mary Chisenhall Smith. He was also preceded in death by his son, Benjamin Noland Smith, a brother, Billy Smith and three sisters, Carolyn Cobb, Penny Mitchell and Ruth Ann Woodall.

Benny retired from the Town of Chapel Hill in 1996 where he was a Supervisor with the public transportation system. Benny had a great love of fishing and spent many summer days on Kerr Lake and at Harker’s Island. He hosted a lot of great fish fries as a result of his fishing adventures. Very early in life, Benny realized his passion was under a hood, with grease on his hands and a cigarette dangling from his lips. Anything with an engine could be given a new life if he worked on it. Later in life, his grandchildren christened his workplace as “Pop’s Garage” and that’s where he spent most of his time until age took it’s toll and he was forced to hang up his shield.

Benny left us on July 29, 2026, at Duke Hock Family Pavilion, surrounded by many of his loving family.

He lived unapologetically, often stubborn and opinionated, always colorful, and entirely himself.

Benny is survived by his wife of 52 years, Patricia; his brother, Buster Smith (Debbie), his very loving and extended family, sister-in laws, Cathy Miller (Denny) and Teresa Spell (David); special nephew, Nathan Brady (Alison); great-nephews, Joshua and Michael Brady; bonus daughter Ginger Forsyth (Jeff) and bonus grandchildren, Nicolas and Gracie Ducharme. He is also survived by children, Lisa Smith Wagoner and Jeff Smith.

Benny fought hard against several illnesses for the past few years. At his request, there will be a private graveside service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in memory of Benny A. Smith to Duke HomeCare & Hospice at givetodukeathome.org.