Bevelly Franklin Smith Jr.

Bevelly Franklin Smith Jr., 77, of Welcome, NC, passed away after declining health on September 22, 2026, in Davidson County. He was born to the late Bevelly F. Smith Sr. and Betty Rose Smith on December 30, 1948.

Franklin graduated from North Davidson High School, where he was also the Drum Major. After high school, Franklin attended Mars Hill College and later worked for many years as Vice President of the family business, Ripple Oil Company.

Franklin will be remembered for his memory of family history, his love for playing the piano, and his dedication to Ripple Oil Company.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 25 years, Mary Wafford Smith.

He is survived by his beloved two sisters, Sharon Anderson (Marvin) and Nadine Lohr (Greg), his niece Misti Butts (Bill), nephews, Danny Anderson (Angie), David Lohr (Emily), Byron Lohr (Courtney), and many great nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to honor Franklin’s life will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, starting at 3 pm, at Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church. Visitation will be held at the same location, beginning an hour prior at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations and memorials can be made to Alderwood Hospice of Davidson County at 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, NC 27292, or Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church at 1082 Community Rd. Lexington, NC 27295.