Visitation Friday for Rev. Charles Smith | People

More details on funeral services for Rev. Charles Smith, pastor of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the church, 185 Eddie Robinson Senior Drive,  on Friday, Sept. 14 then again on Saturday, Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon. The funeral will follow at noon.

Rev. Smith died Tuesday morning after a lengthy illness.

He was  80 years old.

"We appreciate the kindness shown to my father not only during his 50 years of service, but also during his retirement transition," Rev. Fred Jeff Smith tells 9News Neighborhoods. "Thanks to the community for everything they have done for him.  He loved this community with all of his heart."

Rev. Smith retired in May after 50 years of service. A community banquet and special worship service was held in his honor.

Rev. Smith succeeded his father Rev. Dudley Smith into the ministry.  However, two strokes in the past year have taken their toll on his health.  He talked about that earlier this year.

"I didn't  choose to retire, but I thank God that he has blessed me as he has," Rev. Charles Smith said during an interview in January announcing his retirement.

Rev. Smith has championed many causes including being a big supporter of education, providing more than $150,000 in scholarships over the years.