George Edward Smith, Sr., 86, of Marydel, MD, passed away on October 29, 2026 at University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton.

Ed was born on July 23, 1940 in Wilmington, NC to the late Daniel Rose Smith and Maria Lula Thompson Smith. He enlisted in the United States Air Force where he proudly served for 4 years. After his Honorable Discharge, Ed went to work as a traveling salesman. For the majority of his career he worked for Oster Products and sold haircutting products door to door meeting with salon customers from all over the region. Upon his retirement he moved to Maryland where he has lived for the past 30 years.

Ed was a man of many talents. In his younger years he was an excellent swimmer who swam competitively and worked as a lifeguard while in the Air Force. Also while in the Air Force and the years that followed the championship boxer was elected into the Carolina Boxing Hall of Fame. He enjoyed hunting and playing golf and had many stories he liked to share about both. He was a talented woodworker who made beautiful pieces of furniture, and was an excellent cook. He was happiest when he was cooking and sharing a meal with family and friends. Above all he cherished his time spent with his family. As his children were growing up he loved watching Eddie wrestling, Gigi ice skate and race cars with Jane; these were all special times that he got to experience with each of his children.

Along with his parents, Ed is preceded in death by his daughters Janet ‘Jane’ Runion and Georgette ‘Gigi’ Luedeman; first wife Jeanette Reaves Smith; brother Daniel ‘Bud’ Smith, and step-grandson Robbie Moorer.

He is survived by his wife Phyllis Jean Smith; son George Edward Smith Jr.; step-children Sherri Eder, Kimberly O’Brien and Jean Keister; grandchildren Trey Smith, Chloe Smith, Ella Luedeman, Zack Runion, Taylor Enos; step-grandchildren Rick Moorer, John Renehan, Kristy Giodano and Michele Wixson; and a sister-in-law Sandy Smith.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no public service.