It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Charles Richard Smyder, 92, on January 5, 2025, at his home. Born on March 20, 1932, in rural Ligonier County, PA to George B. and Helen Redilla Smyder, Charles lived a full life filled with dedication to family, business, and hard work.The family moved to Greensburg, PA where they successfully built an automobile dealership selling Studebaker, Rambler and finally Datsun and Mercedes Benz. After completing high school, he worked in the Pennsylvania coal mines and contributed to family automotive dealerships. His passion for cars and his mechanical mindset led him to become a Mercedes-Benz Master Certified Automotive Mechanic.In 1974, his father moved the entire family, except for Charless sister, to Alachua, Florida to establish their farming operations and car dealerships of Smyder Ford in Alachua, FL and Volkswagen in Lake City, FL. In the early 1980s Charles opened Smyder Motors Sales and Equipment, an outdoor power equipment business that remains the longest established Gravely Dealer in the State of Florida. Until the day he passed, he drove to and from work and remained engaged in his business with his sons and wife who also accompanied him to work. He truly valued and appreciated his long-term customers and supporters, recognizing the vital role they played in the success of the business. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Thomas, Gerald, George Jr., and sister Evelyn S. Wells. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Regina di Pasquale Smyder; sons Charles R. Smyder, Jr. and his wife Tammy; Gregory A. Smyder and his wife Katherine; and granddaughter Elizabeth C. Smyder. He is remembered fondly by his cousin Richard P. Smyder; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Thomas and Antionette Deitzler; and many nieces and nephews.In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Madeleine Catholic Church, 17155 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs, Florida.A private mass and burial will be held at St. Madeleine Catholic Church in High Springs, Florida. Funeral Home Evans-Carter Funeral Home & Cremation Services 18724 High Springs Main Street High Springs FL - 32643 US 386-454-2444 877-294-2201