Cassius Lyon "C.L." Smith, Jr., 80, of Kelly passed peacefully from his earthly life on Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born May 18, 1932 in Kelly, the son of the late Cassius Lyon Smith, Sr. and Mildred Porter Smith.

C. L. is survived by his brother, Richard Smith (Amanda); sister, Margaret S. Weatherly (Bill) all of Kelly; nieces and nephews, Elizabeth Naylor (Tilghman), Jennifer Lieber (Chip), Allen Weatherly and Cindy Brewer (Carl); and many extended family and friends, all who loved him.

C. L. served his country honorably in the US Navy and was retired from International Paper Company. He was a long time member of Centerville Baptist Church.

C. L. enjoyed hunting, fishing and being outdoors in God's beautiful world of nature. In the days of CB radio many will remember C. L.'s handle as being "Birdman". His witty personality endeared C. L. to family and friends, who greatly enjoyed being in his company. Fond memories of C. L. will be remembered and cherished.

A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 18, 2013 at Smith Family Cemetery with The Rev. Ryan Carter and The Rev. Jack Miller officiating. Military honors will be accorded by US Navy Honor Guard.

The family will receive friends on Friday at the home of Richard and Amanda Smith, 1035 White Oak Road, Kelly, NC following the graveside service.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting "Memory Wall" above.

A graveside service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 18, 2013 at Smith Family Cemetery with The Rev. Ryan Carter and The Rev. Jack Miller officiating. Military honors will be accorded by US Navy Honor Guard.

The family will receive friends on Friday at the home of Richard and Amanda Smith, 1035 White Oak Road, Kelly, NC following the graveside service.