Cheri Rae Smith, 81, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Tuesday, December 18, 2018. Rae, as she preferred to be called, was born on August 14, 1937 in Charlotte. She was the oldest daughter of O.E. (Doc) and Frances M. (Pedersen) Latchaw. She was a lifelong Charlotte resident and a 1955 graduate of Charlotte High School. Over the years she had been employed as credit manager for the local Montgomery Ward Store, she was later appointed branch manager of the local Secretary of State office until it closed, she finished her career and retired from the Eaton County Treasurers Office. Rae was a member of the Charlotte Eagles and Charlotte VFW and she was an avid UofM football fan. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and love of her life, Douglas R. Smith and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Surviving are he three daughters, Debra (Gordon) Henney of Woodland, Cynde (Brad) Carley of Green Bay, Wisc., and Kimberlee Smith of Long Beach, Calif.; five grandchildren, Michael Fletcher of Potterville, Daniel (Judith) Fletcher of Grand Ledge, Jessica (Ryan) Scott-Monschau of Sterling Heights, Christine (DJ) Scott-Hisler of Charlotte, and Dylan Carley of Green Bay; four great-grandchildren; sister, Sally Haight and nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Douglas R. Smith; her parents; sister, Judy Latchaw and great-granddaughter, Bailey Rae Fletcher.

At Rae’s request, cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation at this time as the family has chosen to have a private memorial service at a later date. The family would like to extend a very special thank you for the love care Rae received from Fairview in Grand Ledge and Hospice. Memorial contributions are suggested for Alzheimer’s Association. 

To view Rae’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.