Hugh Emory Smith, Sr.

Hugh Emory Smith, Sr.,  “Hugh De Man”,  born September 13, 1949 to the late Chester A. and Fannie Bell Allen Smith in Roxboro, North Carolina. He departed this life peacefully at his home in Graham, North Carolina on Monday afternoon, February 27th, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones.

Hugh grew up on a farm, where his parents raised tobacco, harvested fruits and vegetables, produced their own meats and dairy products. He was proud of his “heritage” and the lessons of life he learned there. Early in his life he joined the Old Mount Zion Baptist Church, under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Walter E. Mills. He was a graduate of Person County High School and after graduation was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served during the Vietnam era, being honorably discharged early due to the illness and death of his father.

During that time, Hugh was married and began his work career in retail. He was the first black manager of Pic N’ Pay Shoe store in Roxboro and Danville, Virginia. He worked numerous jobs during his lifetime, mostly retail but textiles as well.

Hugh was blessed to father three children; 2 beautiful daughters and a handsome son.

In his early life, Hugh also worked as a “DJ” for various groups and organizations here in the area. He loved music and “MOPAR” cars and would spend the entire day washing and waxing his car (and PLEASE DON’T TOUCH IT).

“Hugh De Man” leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Nellie Smith of the home; one son, Hugh Smith, Jr. of Roxboro, NC; two daughters, Karen Smith of Durham, NC and Latoya Smith of Chatham, Virginia. One sister, Rev. Jacqueline Smith of Roxboro, NC; four grandsons, Dominique Smith, Isaiah Smith, and David Smith of Roxboro, NC and  Jaylen Smith of Chatham, Virginia. One granddaughter, Vanessa Clayton of Greensboro, NC; special cousin (like a brother), Larry Williams of Alton, Virginia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

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