The Passing of Bud Smith
Dear Covenant Family,
We are saddened to share that our dear friend Bud Smith passed away on August 13, 2025. Bud was the sweet, warm-hearted man whose home we helped restore after Hurricane Helene. As our teams worked on his house, Bud slowly emerged from the shock of the storm’s devastation. He went from quiet and reserved to chatty, sharing stories of his life, his beloved bear hunting adventures, and the memories he had built along the Linville River.
Bud served in the U.S. Army, attended NC State, and had a long and distinguished career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He cherished his family—his children, grandchildren, and extended relatives—and enjoyed hunting, farming, and spending time outdoors.
We all loved and adored Bud. He had a way of transforming those around him—his humor, generosity, and deep connection to the land left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Just the week before he passed, Bud wrote a heartfelt letter of thanks to Covenant, expressing his gratitude for the care and time invested in helping him return home. We are so grateful to have had the chance to know him and to witness his spirit shine.
We take comfort in knowing that Bud spent his final months in the home he had lovingly built and lived in for so many years, surrounded by the river, the land, and the memories that meant so much to him.
Peace,
Mandy
We are saddened to share that our dear friend Bud Smith passed away on August 13, 2025. Bud was the sweet, warm-hearted man whose home we helped restore after Hurricane Helene. As our teams worked on his house, Bud slowly emerged from the shock of the storm’s devastation. He went from quiet and reserved to chatty, sharing stories of his life, his beloved bear hunting adventures, and the memories he had built along the Linville River.
Bud served in the U.S. Army, attended NC State, and had a long and distinguished career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He cherished his family—his children, grandchildren, and extended relatives—and enjoyed hunting, farming, and spending time outdoors.
We all loved and adored Bud. He had a way of transforming those around him—his humor, generosity, and deep connection to the land left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Just the week before he passed, Bud wrote a heartfelt letter of thanks to Covenant, expressing his gratitude for the care and time invested in helping him return home. We are so grateful to have had the chance to know him and to witness his spirit shine.
We take comfort in knowing that Bud spent his final months in the home he had lovingly built and lived in for so many years, surrounded by the river, the land, and the memories that meant so much to him.
Peace,
Mandy
Previous story of Bud's resilience: The Resilience of Bud Smith | Covenant Presbyterian Church - Charlotte, NC
Bud's obituary: Saxton Hall Smith Obituary (2025) - Newland, NC - Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland
Click the links below to find out more about any of the following:
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If you would like to help financially, donate to our Avery Flood Relief Fund.
For more information contact:
Mandy Rencher
Director of Mission and Outreach
mandy.rencher@covenantpresby.org
704-804-7574
Mandy Rencher
Director of Mission and Outreach
mandy.rencher@covenantpresby.org
704-804-7574
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