FAYETTEVILLE — Doug Smith was a faithful servant of Christ. His easy going ways and wit drew people to him. He could find humor in most every situation, and always knew the perfect thing to say to put folks at ease. He absolutely loved coaching the ladies softball team of Village Baptist Church for 18 years. And he cherished teaching his Sunday school class for the same length of time. He had a tremendous talent for playing the drums and offered that gift every Sunday in the church praise band. He enjoyed running, working out at the gym, and painting his backyard canvas with beautiful flowers. He wanted to bring beauty into the world for his wife and for others.

From the beginning of finding out his diagnosis of cancer, he said God is good and is in control. He faithfully believed that through his last breath this past Thursday, Feb. 5, 2015. He had a peaceful passing at home with family all around.

Over the past two and a half years, he fought through nine surgeries to include two brain surgeries, three bouts of radiation, three separate IV treatments, and lymphedema. Through it all, he never complained.

He was a leader, yet never brought attention to himself. He steadily, in his easy going ways, just did what God lead him to do. He deeply loved his wife, Sharon, and was a faithful devoted husband. They enjoyed laughter together most every day. Doug Smith was a dedicated man of God. This past Thursday, he was told "Well done my good and faithful servant." Yes, he ran the good race and has found his faith to become sight when he was embraced in the arms of Jesus.

Funeral services will be held tonight, Feb. 8, 2015, at 7 p.m. in Village Baptist Church. Burial will be private. The family will receive friends today, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Village Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Hinton Smith of the home; parents, Russell and Mary Catherine Smith of Fayetteville; sister, Marjorie Seiple and husband Hal of Fayetteville; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Marie Hinton of Fayetteville; sisters-in-law, Pam Ainsworth and husband Wally of Fayetteville, and Debi Pierson of Greenville; and his nephews, Matthew and Phillip Spangler, Jeff Ainsworth, and Sammy and Corey Pierson; and niece, Mary Beth Ainsworth.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Village Baptist Church in his honor.