Charles Edward Smith, Sr.

The Man, The Myth, The Legend
Charles Edward Castle Smith, Sr.

Charles Edward Castle Smith, Sr. was born on January 7, 1937, to the late John T. Castle Sr. and Margaret E. Smith in Washington, D.C. Charles earned his wings, transitioning from labor to reward on November 8, 2025, at his home in Laurel, MD, surrounded by his dedicated and loving family.

Mookie, as he was called, was the oldest of fourteen children, was raised in the Oakcrest community and educated in Prince George's County Public Schools. At the age of 13, he began working, establishing a foundation for his life characterized by a strong work ethic. He found the love of his life, Olivia (Libby) E. Jones, and they married on March 10, 1956. Together, they had three children: Charles Jr., Oliver, and Mildred, whom they raised in the Oakcrest community.

From a young age, his grandmother, Elizabeth Powell, took him to Mount Zion United Methodist Church in Laurel, Maryland. They enjoyed singing the song "Be with Me Jesus" by Sam Cooke.
In his younger years, he enjoyed playing baseball with his cousins and was known for being a fast runner. As a dedicated provider, he often worked multiple jobs to ensure his family had everything they needed. Although he was a quiet man, he always spoke his mind when necessary.

Charles was also a member of the Benevolence Sons and Daughters of Abraham Lodge #28 in Laurel, Maryland.

Charles had an extensive career with several employers. He worked for the Maryland State Road, the Prince George’s County Public School System, and Fox Rest Apartments, where he managed the gym and also drove the shuttle bus, affectionately known as "Charlie." Charles was employed by the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC). His colleagues referred to him as Charles or "Shorty." he proudly served for over 32 years before retiring. His final position was with Aimco, where he was part of the maintenance crew in Virginia and
Maryland, retiring after 24 years of service. Throughout his career, Charles held various part-time jobs in addition to his full-time position.

Charles had a passion for fast cars, and you would never find a speck of dirt on any of them, inside or out. He washed and waxed his vehicles several times a week. On Saturday mornings, he enjoyed listening to his favorite radio station, WPFW. He also liked watching Westerns and was an avid sports fan, cheering for his favorite teams: the Washington Redskins, and the Baltimore Orioles.

Mookie had a beloved dog named Bear, whom he cared for over 13 years until Bear passed away in October of this year.

Charles (Mookie) leaves a legacy of love to his dedicated children: Oliver Smith (Alice), Mildred Briscoe (Eugene), grandchildren, Latasha Ball (whom he raised), Troy Smith, Eric Briscoe, Joy Mason (James), Ricardo Warren, and Janai Ball. Great-grandchildren, Jaquan, Jailyn, Jamari, Janiyah, and Jamerah Ball, Marquez Smith, Cire Barber, London Benjamin, and India Thomas. Great great Grandchildren, Amir Riddick, and Jah Ball. Brothers, Lonnie Sr., and Ronald Smith, and Donald Castle (Charlene). Sisters, Helen Smith, Shirley Johnson, Ella King, Delores Mason (Thomas), Laura Burch, Elizabeth Castle, and Beatrice Bailey. Uncle, Joseph Powell, Aunt, Pearl Powell, Honorary Sons, Leonard Stewart, and Benjamin Pettiford, Special Great Great Neice, Serenity Gant. A Host of Nieces, Nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Preceding him in death; his Wife, Olivia (Libby) E. Smith; Son, Charles E. Smith Jr.; great-granddaughter, Latasia N. Ball; Brothers, Thomas T. Castle, Howard, Calvin, and Stewart Smith.

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