Charles A. Smith, Jr.

Charles A. Smith, Jr., age 76 years, former long-time Flemington resident, passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center - Mainland Campus, Galloway Township, NJ, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 18, 1949, in Flemington, NJ, he was the son of the late Catherine (Malone) Smith and Charles A. Smith, Sr.

He was a 1968 graduate of Hunterdon Central Regional High School. Upon graduation, he entered the United States Marine Corps, serving at the height of the Vietnam War.  He completed two combat tours with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, flying on Medevac helicopters. After serving from 1968-1971 with distinction, he was honorably discharged from active duty.

Charlie dedicated his life to his craft as a plumber, having learned the trade from his father. His career included employment at the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab and culminated in his role in the Maintenance Department of Hunterdon Medical Center as a plumber and fire suppression technician. His commitment to excellence in his work earned him the respect and admiration of his peers.

An avid outdoorsman, Charlie cherished moments spent fishing, hunting, and boating, particularly in the picturesque state of Maine. He found peace in the natural beauty of Flying Pond in Mount Vernon, ME, where he enjoyed family trips each summer since 1966. His love for the outdoors was matched by his passion for music; Charlie was a talented drummer who played professionally as a teenager alongside his dear friend from New York Avenue in Flemington, Danny Federici, who later became the keyboard player for Bruce Springsteen's E-Street Band. From performing on shows like Sally Star and Larry Ferrari to sharing great memories with legendary musicians like B.B. King, Charlie's youthful exuberance for music left a lasting impact on his life.

Charlie's character was underscored by a genuine optimism and remarkable meteorological knowledge, allowing him to forecast the weather with a unique flair. A dedicated member of the Flemington Fire Department for 35 years, Charlie held various roles including Fire Chief and was also actively involved with FDNY's Rescue 5 in Staten Island, NY. His commitment to public service extended to memberships in the American Legion - NJ Post 0159, VFW Post 7856, and the Marine Corps League, Rockland, Maine Detachment.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife, Margaret "Margie" Troost; his son, Charles "Austin" Smith, III, and his wife, Linda; along with two wonderful grandchildren, Lucy Jane and Austin James. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Judi Smith, who passed away in 2006.

A visitation will be held on August 30, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ. Following the visitation, a funeral service and firemen's service will commence at 1:00 PM in the funeral home, followed by military honors and burial at St. Magdalen Cemetery, Flemington, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Charlie's memory may be made to the Travis Mills Foundation by clicking the link below.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. For further information or to send an online condolence. please visit www.holcombefisher.com.