We were saddened to learn of the recent death of retired WCG/GCI pastor, Carlton Smith. Carlton graduated from Ambassador College in Pasadena, CA, in 1956, where, as a student, he participated in two U.S. baptizing tours. Carlton then pastored WCG congregations in Colorado, Kansas, Illinois, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Washington and California. Following retirement, he resided in Visalia, CA, then most recently in Solvang, CA.
Carlton is survived by his wife of 59 years, Beverly, his son Douglas Smith, his daugther Aletha Mann (wife of GCI Assistant Pastor Brad Mann), and his daughther Carlene Jones. Carlene wrote this in tribute to her father:
One of his greatest joys was serving the church for nearly forty years. We experienced so much through him and appreciated his favorite and often-quoted Bible verse, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col. 1:27). He has now achieved that glory and left us with a love for Christ and the pursuit of our Christian faith with deep reverence, sincerity and confidence that all things work for the good of those who believe. We joke that he made it from Mississippi to the resurrection, a tremendous journey in which we were privileged to share.
Cards may be sent to:
Beverly Smith
1651 Laurel Ave
Solvang, CA 93463
To Carlton’s family – My parents were baptized by Mr. Smith on a baptizing tour in July 1958 and then he was our pastor in Denver for the first few months that we attended before being replaced by Burk McNair who also recently passed away. Our prayers are with your whole family.
Dear Family,
Please accept our condolences. Mr. Smith lived a full life in dedication to Christ. May we all follow his example.
In Him,
Santiago and Elke
God’s peace and comfort to the Smith family. God is Always Faithful, especially during difficult times in our lives. Our deepest sympathy from the Pastor and members of Christian Family Fellowship – Jacksonville, Florida.
Our condolences and love to the family. Love to read how his focus was on our Savior, Jesus Christ.