Carl Smiley passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, at the age of 68, surrounded by his loving family.

Carl was born on February 22, 1957, in Birmingham, Alabama, to his mother, Burnell Smiley.

A faithful servant of God, Carl dedicated his life to ministry and spreading the gospel of Christ. He was the preacher of Austin Heights Church of Christ and affectionately referred to himself as a "home school minister." Carl retired from TXDOT March 2015 he served there 23 years. After retirement he considered himself a jack of all trades, master of none.

Carl was baptized at the North Crosby Church of Christ in Tulia, Texas, at the age of 12 in 1969 by Brother T.A. Williams. In 1985, he moved to Plainview, Texas, and placed his membership with the Ash & Carver Church of Christ. In 2009, Carl was installed as the minister of Ash & Carver Church of Christ, where he faithfully preached and taught the gospel for 22 years.

Carl's life was a living testimony of faith, perseverance, and love. He inspired many through his ministry and left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He was also a great mentor and coach to many.

He is survived by his children: Daughter, Carla Smiley of Lewisville, TX; Son, Reggie Smiley (Kathryn) of Euless, TX; Daughter, Ebony Chance (Ty) of Dallas, TX; Son, Zal Smiley (Bailey) of Plainview, TX; and Son, Joshua Smiley (Kamryn) of Plainview, TX. His bonus sons Matthew Perry of Plainview, TX and Michael Perry of Japan.

He is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Brianna Mathis of Lewisville, TX; Kyra Smiley, T.J. Smiley, and Ashlyn Smiley of Euless, TX; Hilton Smiley, Mia Smiley, Zayla Smiley, Lincoln Smiley, and Aria Smiley of Plainview, TX; Tyra Franklin and Elijah Franklin of Dallas, TX; and one great-grandchild, Zayden Lomax of Lewisville, TX. He is also survived by his brother, Greg Perkins (Mecca) of Waco, TX, along with a host of other relatives, church family, and friends who will cherish his memory forever.

He was preceded in death by his beloved Wife Donita Smiley, Mom Burnell Smiley, Brother Michael Smiley and Sister Jennifer Perkins.

Carl fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.