Eugene Smith Obituary

Eugene “Salt” Smith, Jr.

August 13, 1938 – August 4, 2025

Eugene “Salt” Smith Jr., 86, of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 4, 2025, following a sudden decline in health.

Born on August 13, 1938, to the late Eugene Sr. and Jannie Mae Smith, Salt was a proud lifelong resident of Aliquippa until his final two years, which he spent in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by the love of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A 1956 graduate of Aliquippa High School, he furthered his education through certified training at Geneva College, Duquesne University, and Robert Morris College.

Affectionately known as “Salt,” he was a pillar of the community whose life was marked by leadership, service, and an unwavering commitment to others. For many, he was the “first” to open doors and set new precedents. He made history as the first African American trustee of the Community College of Beaver County, a role that paved the way for others to follow.

Salt devoted 32 years to the Aliquippa School Board, working tirelessly to strengthen the local school system. His leadership extended into many arenas. He was a faithful member and trustee of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, Chairman of the Aliquippa Democratic Party, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Beaver County Hospital Authority, and the General Manager of the Aliquippa Water Authority for over three decades.

At the core of Salt’s life was an unshakable love for his wife, children, siblings, and extended family. His marriage to his beloved Jacquelyn was a 64-year partnership built on respect, devotion, and joy. He was a proud and attentive father, deeply engaged in his children’s lives, and a constant source of encouragement to his siblings.

Salt was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jacquelyn L. Smith; parents Eugene Sr. and Jannie Mae Smith; brothers Luther and Alex “Rudy” Smith; and sister Shirley Scott.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Charmaine (Terrence) Norville, Deborah (Derrick) Cook, Carlton (Renee) Smith, and Troy Dawkins; grandchildren: Xavier and Myles Smith, Isaiah and Noah (Genesis) Norville, Phoenix and Quincy Cook, Dynasti Curenton, Indyah Dawkins, and LaToya Rice; and great-grandchildren: Shakur, Spirit, and Soul Norville, Jayden Curenton, Tamari Gordon, and Aamir Rice. He also leaves behind godchildren: Anissa (Willie) Simmons, Lucious Curenton, and Brian Curenton; siblings: Harvey (Marian) Smith Sr., Rutha Smith, Merylyn Butler, and Wardale (Francis) Smith; in-laws: JoAnn Smith, Daisy Smith, and Willie Scott Sr.; and cousins: John (Mattie) McCoy Sr. and Margaret Henderson. Salt’s love and generosity extended to a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors. A special note of gratitude goes to nieces Angie (JR) Gilliam, Alisa (Henry) Gentry, and nephew Ronald Smith Sr. for their devoted care and support.

The Smith family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the many family members and friends who called, visited, and offered prayers during Salt’s time in North Carolina. Your kindness, encouragement, and love have been a source of strength, and we are forever grateful. May God richly bless each of you.

The wake for Salt Smith will be Friday, August 15 from 6pm-8pm at Church in the Round, 784 Griffith Street Aliquippa.  The family is asking everyone to wear your favorite Aliquippa Quips shirt, or any Red & Black attire to honor one of Quip’s favorite sons.

There will be a viewing at 10am, prior to the Homegoing celebration at 11am, Saturday August 16th at Church in the Round.