Michael R. Smith

Michael ‘Mike’ Richard Smith, 49, crossed over on Friday, October 12, 2018, at his home with family by his side. Born November 7, 1968, Mike was the youngest of 5 children. He is survived by his wife and best friend, Norma (his angel from heaven); son Griffin, daughter Zoe, and family dog, Pearl. Mike was so proud of his children and loved their quick wit and sense of humor. Griffin who just became an Eagle Scout and began his Freshman year of college. His daughter, Zoe, is an accomplished diver at Duke Diving Club and a Junior in high school. Mike was very close to his sister Zoe and brother James. Mike was also extremely close with all of Norma’s family (in-laws, nieces and nephews). He had a large extended family of friends and co-workers. Mike was employed by GlaxoSmithKline as a webmaster and database administrator from 1996 – present. Music was his soul. He was an accomplished musician and singer whose love of music was always present in his life. Some highlights surrounding his love for music: being selected to play on stage with Jimmy Buffett’s band which featured a guitar solo by Mike in front of 20,000 people; he also met Johnny Cash while eating at the Sunset Grill in Los Angeles. Mike attended GIT (Guitar Institute of Technology) and had the opportunity to work with professional guitar players that included Kenny Loggins, Steve Vai and Dweezil Zappa. He has led many bands over the years, each with its own style. ‘On top of the World’ was how Mike responded to anyone who asked ‘How’s it going’? He had a positive attitude and was willing to take on any challenge despite multiple medical issues. Mike was a ray of sunshine in the many lives he touched. One of his many personal highlights was qualifying for, appearing on, and winning an episode of Wheel of Fortune. Mike has instilled wonderful times and memories for all those who had the good fortune to be a part of his life. The family will receive friends at 1:00 pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 pm on Thursday, October 18, 2018 at Renaissance Funeral Home, 7615 Six Forks Road in Raleigh. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation ℅ https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/PFFTribute/MikeSMith The Family wishes to thank Transitions LifeCare of Wake County for their support and loving care.

Michael R. Smith

November 7, 1968 - October 12, 2018