Family and friends are mourning the passing of Patrick Lee Smith, who died peacefully at his Winston-Salem home on July 7, 2026, at the age of 76. His passing marks the loss of a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a cherished member of the community whose kindness, generosity, and love for life touched everyone who knew him.
Born on July 12, 1949, in Buchanan County, Virginia, Patrick was the son of the late Frederick Robinson Smith and Rosa Lee Hagy Smith. Throughout his life, he was known for building meaningful relationships and embracing every opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Patrick had a lifelong passion for classic automobiles and was a proud member of the Ponies of the Piedmont Mustang Club, where he enjoyed sharing his enthusiasm for Ford Mustangs with fellow collectors and enthusiasts. He also loved traveling and taking cruises, experiences that brought him great joy and allowed him to spend quality time with those he loved.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Michael Frederic Smith. Patrick is survived by his beloved wife, Melinda Dawn Stanley Smith; his sons, Wesley Robinson Cox and Christopher Kevin Cox; his grandchildren, Heaven Theresa Cox, Noah Christopher Cox, and Jeremiah Ethan Cox; his sisters, Colleen Smith Huff and Mary Ann Pollard; along with several nieces, a nephew, extended family members, and dear friends.
A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel, followed by a graveside service at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, at Meadows of Dan Baptist Church in Virginia. Patrick Lee Smith will be remembered for his loving heart, unwavering devotion to his family, and the lasting friendships he built throughout his life. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the memories his loved ones will forever cherish.
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