Slater Smith Jr.

1975 - 2017

Slater Smith Jr. obituary, 1975-2017, Raleigh, NC

BORN

1975

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Brown-Wynne Funeral Home

1701 East Millbrook Road

Raleigh, North Carolina

Slater Smith Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 2, 2017.

Slater Smith, Jr. of Raleigh, NC and formerly of Sherborn and Sudbury, MA died peacefully in the presence of his mother, father and sister on October 1, 2017.

While living with the challenges of cerebral palsy and being wheelchair bound all of his life, Slater brought a special kind of joy and humor into the lives of those lucky enough to be touched by him. At the forefront of special education legislation, he was involved in starting a number of community schools and was always taking part in outreach programs and speaking to the public about living with disabilities. Acting, music and watching sports were of particular interest. As a participant, he took part in wheelchair games and spent a few memorable winters involved with a disabled ski program where he could be seen navigating Loon Mountain on his bi-ski in subzero temperatures. His participation in the Pilgrim Church youth group had a lasting impression on both Slater and his fellow youth group members. Slater was proud of his involvement in the Michael Carter Lisnow Respite Center in Hopkinton, MA and of his many years volunteering with the Ashland Animal Hospital in Ashland, MA. Two years ago, Slater moved to Raleigh, NC to be closer to family and enjoy a warmer climate. During his time in North Carolina, he captured the hearts of many at the Litchford Falls Nursing home, participated in several road races with Ainsley's Angels and found a true family in the Christ's Sanctified Holy Church. Slater was in control of what he wanted until the very end. He was caring, calm, courageous and he is now at peace.

Slater is survived by his father Slater Smith, Sr, mother Suzy Nichols Smith, sister Corey Riley, brother-in-law Shawn Riley and two nephews, Colin and Adam Riley. A service was held on October 5th at Christ's Sanctified Holy Church in Raleigh.

In memory of Slater contributions to the Lisnow Respite Center in Hopkinton, MA, Christ's Sanctified Holy Church in Raleigh, or Ainsley's Angels North Carolina Central Carolina group would be appreciated.
Lisnow Respite Center, www.hopkintonrespite.com; Ainsley's Angels, Central Carolina group,
https://www.crowdrise.com/SlaterSmith

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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November 1, 2017

Slater was a dear child/boy/man and was blessed to have so much support from his family and friends. My daughter,Carole baby sat for him and enjoyed him so much.
Betsy Palmer

October 31, 2017

I will always remember Slater at the Dover Sherborn High School plays when he judiciously passed out programs to the guests, always with a broad smile. He was a very courageous young man who knew how to make the best of the life he was given. So many of us will miss him. Betsy Breziner

October 14, 2017

Lisa Jenks

Slater Jr and his parents and Corey walked up the street to welcome us when we moved to Prospect Street in Sherborn 30 years ago. We have been friends ever since and will always feel that the Smiths are our neighbors even though we have both moved away from Sherborn. I had fun playing the guitar and singing with Slater over the years and especially loved it at Corey's wedding. Slater always cracked up when I swore which encouraged me to swear often in his presence. He laughed easily which touched me deeply since he had so many physical challenges. He was well loved by his sister and his mom and dad and many friends. He was the brightest light that still shines on us all. I miss him. I send love & peace from the Jenks family to Corey, Suzy and Slater during this time of loss.

October 11, 2017

Ann Orshammar

Thank you for all the good memories. ❤

October 9, 2017

Laurie Woogmaster

"The world isn't just the way it is. It is how we understand it,no? And in understanding something, we bring something to it, no? Doesn't that make life a story?" -Yann Martel
With his kind heart and soul, Slater Jr. understood more about the beauty of life as a story than we can imagine. With the support of his immediate family and the many more who loved him as family, he was able to enrich the lives of us all. I will forever cherish the memories of Slater Jr's ability to make me laugh and will never be forgotten in our cousin crew. Despite his adversities, he warmed the hearts of those around him. Slater Jr's story is one of how life can be lived, with love, kindness, and the determination to do anything you put your mind to.
After all, isn't that the story we all want to tell?

October 8, 2017

After attending Slater's Memorial Service, it was obvious to us that he was an exceptional person and despite his dissability achieved so much and gave a huge amount to others. We're sorry we didn't know him, but very thankful to know his family who are wonderful friends.
Sandra and John Wordsworth.
(Posted on Facebook)

October 7, 2017

Have been thinking of you often. I hope it was a good celebration of your brother's life. I remember a twinkle in his eye when he was winding up for a great of joke and the freedom of driving his own wheel chair (maybe at ramming speed or at least with abandon).
(Sarah Neimeyer via email 10/7/17)

October 6, 2017

Siobhan Jameson

I have so many great memories of Slater, mostly during my junior high and high school years. I loved how passionate he was about animals and he often wanted to talk to me about my dad (he was a doctor), as Slater talked about becoming a vet one day! I also loved our vacations with the whole Smith family up at Loon Mountain. Slater's face when he was skiing was priceless and ever so memorable - pure joy!!! Especially if he had some powder face shots or wipeouts! Such a wonderful soul, and I am so grateful to have known him.

October 5, 2017

Heidi Dembrosky

Slater had a positive influence on me and even shaped the person I am today. I am so glad he is my cousin and so proud of all the things he accomplished. I will always remember hearing him screeching with laughter on his bi-ski at Loon Mountain. I also will always remember him singing at his sister's wedding.

October 5, 2017

NORMA Cummings

so glad I got to meet Slater and was thrilled he enjoyed dinner what a wonderful guy

October 5, 2017

Dan, Sandy, Emily and Hannah DeMaioNewton

It was a joy knowing Slater, Jr. He was an inspiration to our entire family.

October 5, 2017

The Cudney Family

We are so blessed to live next door to an incredible, loving family as the Rileys (Shawn, Corey, Colin, and Adam). We have been fortunate to be able to attend many events with Slater and it is apparent as soon as you walk through the room what a light Slater was to everybody he touched. He was always full of smiles, contentment, and laughs as he watched his nephews play and joke with him. We will miss seeing him. My fondest memory is attending the broadway show Rent with Corey and Slater. He was so proud to be accompanied by two cool chicks. As we devoured gourmet hot dogs outside DPAC, an Ainsley's Angel came by to talk with us. The excitement and happiness that came upon Slater's face at the thought of running a marathon is something that will forever warm my heart. We are thankful that he lived a life full of love...both given and received. May you rest in peace, Slater. Sending love, prayers and sincerest condolences to your family and loved ones.

October 5, 2017

Caitlin Espy

Slater was such an amazing member of our Ainsley's Angels family. He always made me laugh and smile during our runs together and feel so incredibly blessed to know such an awesome person. Slater and his family always will have a special place in my heart for the love they have for others and for each other. Our Ainsley's Angels family will miss you so very much and will continue to run in your memory. I know you will be there with us every step of the way.

October 5, 2017

Justin Sifford

I had the pleasure of spending an evening with Slater. I was fortunate enough to live next door the his fantastic Sister Corey and Brother in law Shawn. I had been bragging about how good of a BBQ smoked brisket I can make and was looking for the opportunity to impress my friends next door. As it turns out Slater was in town and I had plenty. The day before my wife Kristy and I had traveled to Durm to a specialty meat market. I purchased an all grass fed brisket, this was surely going to be the best brisket I had ever made. 5AM the next day I was up preparing the brisket to go in the smoker. Fast forward a few hours all is good, smoking temperature was perfect. I was well on my way to perfection. 7 PM, I arrived next door with a large brisket that looked good but had a different smell than past briskets. I began slicing the meat and still was perplexed why this brisket has smelt so different, and it wasn't a particularly good smell not bad, but not good. As stress began to set in I sampled a little piece and my world began to fall apart. I asked my wife to come over and have a sample to get her thoughts, perhaps it was me. She confirmed something was off. Kristy said it's not bad but it's not that good. I began to crawl in a little hole and told my friends "I'm pretty sure this is safe to eat, but the taste is off" Of course Salter, Corey, Shawn and everyone else said "on no it's fine, and actually pretty good" Slater had even asked for seconds if my memory serves me correct. Dinner was great time, we had wine, Cory made some really nice side dishes, but my brisket was not what I hoped it to be. After leaving I later read that you should never smoke a grass fed brisket, the fat does not render. Slater demonstrated kindness, gratefulness and gratitude to a stranger. Of course I was grateful for his eagerness not to display any type of disappointment, but what was more powerful about the evening was the lessons he taught my two boys and his two nephews. Even when something is not great, if someone else provides it for you, you like it and are happy to have it. He may no longer be with us, but his lessons live on in my kids as I am sure his nephews. Thanks for the evening Slater, the pleasure was all mine...

October 5, 2017

Corey I am so sorry. I have many wonderful memories with him. Heaven has definitely received an angel. Hugs to your family ❤❤❤
Jennifer Hancock
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

My sincerest condolences to you and your family, Corey. I loved when Slater would visit you at Bowdoin. May he rest in peace.
Scott Alexander
(Posted in Facebook)

October 5, 2017

I'm so sorry for your loss Corey. What a beautiful person Slater was and what an incredible family. Love to you all.
Lindsay Madeira Walsh
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

Sending my love and prayers to you and your family, Corey. I'll always remember Slater and his wonderful smile.
Greg McCullough
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

You all have been in my thoughts and heart these last several weeks and just so sad as Slater brought so much joy to this world. His courage throughout life is an inspiration for us all and he will be deeply missed. You have an angel watching over you, but then again he was always watching over you here on earth. Sending lots of love and hugs during this sad time.
Calla Lapham Potts
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

Corey, Suzy and Slater....Have thought of you so many, many times in the past days, months and yes, years. My heart, prayers and thoughts go out to you with love and support. Slater was such a wonderful person, nephew it was so special to know him. I know he will be missed. His courage, strength and spirit are a lesson for us all. May he rest in peace knowing how much he inspired, taught us.... Love to you all always.
Nancy Corwin Nichols Martin
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

Slater was such a special soul, and I am so lucky to have known him. My heart goes out to you and your family. I love you all!
Siobhan Sutton Jameson
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

Kevin and I were so sad to hear about Slater. We all have such fond memories of him - and what a sense of humor he had. He touched many lives and will be missed by so many. Heaven has received one of its best angels and he will be in many hearts forever. Hugs for you and your family and your parents. We are thinking and praying for all of you.
Nancy Barrett
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

I am so sorry to hear that, Corey. Slater was such a kind person. I remember seeing him at Ashland Animal Hospital many years ago when we'd take our dogs to the vet and how happy he seemed to be hanging out with all the animals. Sending you and the family love from San Francisco.
Rachel Solomon Silard
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

I'm so sorry for this loss-not only for your family, but for this world. Slater exuded joy and passed it on to others. He was a true teacher and role model for others. You and you family are in my heart and I'll hold you all in prayer. Much love.
Lois McGinley
(Posted on Facebook)

October 5, 2017

Andrew Mudge

Sent for Slater on September 25, 2017:
Hi Slater!
My thoughts are with you dear friend. Of my many memories with you, our time together at church workcamp in Philadelphia made such an impression in my life. I remember you and I meeting the HIV positive homeless man, and the life lessons we took away from that conversation, and how that shelter opened our eyes. Of course we also laughed. As you taught me, laughter is sometimes the best medicine. I love you brother!
Andrew Mudge

October 5, 2017

Laura Nemmers

I never met Slater, but being friends with his sister I heard a lot about him. I enjoyed watching him and his work with Ainsley's Angels on Facebook. He seemed like a delightful person, and if he is anything like his sister I know he was truly a light in the world. I wish that I had the opportunity to meet him. Sending my love and condolences to his family.

October 4, 2017

Sorry to hear about the loss of your son.

October 4, 2017

My condolences go out to the family of Slater. Im so sorry to hear of his passing. May God comfort and strengthen the entire family during this difficult time.

October 3, 2017

It was our most sincerest pleasure in having the opportunity to get to know Slater in the time that we were given. He was loved by our staff and our residents alike and thoughts of him will be hard pressed to ever be forgotten in these halls...he was truly a beautiful person and an exceptional man. He is sorely missed, from the moment he left our doors, and we truly mourn his transition from this life into a new one...one that we pray finds him walking and smiling while he awaits our great reunion. Peace and blessings of comfort to all of your family - we love you and will be thinking of you...

Love,
Chris, June and the Residents of Litchford Falls

October 3, 2017

Melissa Kelly

I met Slater about 2 years ago while working at Litchford Falls as an as needed speech therapist. I enjoyed talking with him in the hallways where he could always be found zooming about. He had a fantastic sense of humor and will be missed very much. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.

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