Thomas Smith

Thomas Gordon Smith, 74, of Horse Shoe, NC, passed away on January 16, 2017 at Four Seasons Elizabeth House, Flat Rock, NC. He was a son of the late Gordon and Bernice Badmone Smith. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two daughters; Deanna and Renee, two brothers; Perry and Barry Smith and two sisters; Ellen and Donna.
Tom was a Veteran serving in the US Navy during the Vietnam era. He served aboard the USS Independence, CVA-62 Attack Aircraft Carrier, where he served from one of the many galleys on board cooking and baking. It was a highlight for him and his wife, Amy to attend the ship reunions every year. After serving four years active duty, he served 20 years in the Naval Reserves, with the last few years as a SeaBee's.
He was a Recreation Director with State of NY, Rome DDSO.
Tom was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Moving to Horse Shoe, NC in 1997 Tom volunteered with the VIP (Volunteers in Partnership) program in Henderson County for 10 years with the Sheriff's Department. His service to others was in his everyday life. He and a friend, Karen Mooney, would entertain residents at various nursing homes with music and laughter.
He loved doing his yardwork, mowing, trimming and being outside. As a young man, Tom played little league in Pennsylvania. His team went to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. He cherished that experience for his entire life.
He is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Amy Martino; three sons: Vinny Martino and wife Marvadene of Florida, Mark Martino of Florida, and Tony Martino and wife Teri-Lyn of Texas; two granddaughters: Gabrielle and Ashlyn; two sisters: Bonnie Leavitt of New York and Linda Mellen and husband Bob of Florida; one brother, Deri Smith of Florida,; and special friends Bill and Sharon Garren, and several nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, January 27, 2017 at 11:00 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Shawn O'Neal officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service in the church fellowship hall.
Military Rites will be conducted by the Transylvania County Honor Guard.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks for the love and concern that the staff at Elizabeth House gave to Tom and his family during his short stay with them.
To leave a condolence for the family of Thomas Smith, please visit "obituaries" at www.moore-fh.com .
Moore-Blanchard Funerals & Cremations is caring for the family.