Edward Franklin Smith, Jr. or "Beanie" as he was so affectionately called by his sister Phyllis, was born on April 14, 1954 in Kinston, North Carolina to Hester Ruth Smith and Edward Smith, Sr. He then moved to Winston-Salem, North Carolina where he attended St. Benedicts and was a member of the basketball team. After graduation, Ed enrolled at Fayetteville State University and later enlisted as a U.S. naval officer.

Following his service, Ed traveled around the world eventually settling back in his hometown of Winston-Salem. Ed was always "good with his hands" and as an entrepreneur, he spent his time fixing everything from automobiles and heating units to computers and cell phones.

Ed passed away on January 23, 2022. He was survived by his nephew, Michael Grace Jr.; his uncle, Leslie Brinson of Raleigh, North Carolina; and a host of cousins and close friends. Ed will be remembered for his sense humor and his infectious laugh.

Private memorial services will be held Thursday, February 3, 2022.