Lon S. Smith, 90, lifelong resident of Franklin, passed away Monday July 9, 2018.

Born September 21, 1927, he was predeceased by his mother and father, Myrtle Roper Smith and Dalton Smith, brothers Odell and Clint Smith, and sister Bessie Ray. He leaves behind his only remaining sister, Nettie Smith of Asheville, NC and countless nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He loved the outdoors and the mountains, and his life's passion was reading. After losing his eyesight and residing at Grandview Manor Care Center in Franklin, he "read" over 19,356 hours of audiotape books, with his favorites being Zane Grey and Louis L'Amour westerns and Stephen King. Lon was well known for his work ethic and strength; his ability as a farm hand to pick up hay bales, one in each hand, made him a much sought after and productive member of the Burningtown community.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to all staff at his home at Grandview Manor Care Center, as well as the staff at Angel Medical Center and Angel Hospice.

A Private Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 13 at Burningtown Baptist Church Cemetery, of which he was a member.

A visitation will be held from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Thursday, July 12 at Macon Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to: North Carolina Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped, 1841 Capital Boulevard, Raleigh, NC 27635.

Condolences can be made to the family at www.maconfuneralhome.com