Greg Smith is pictured at his store, Mitchell Hardware, in this photo posted on the store's Facebook page. Greg Smith died Monday, Jan. 29.
Updated at 4:48 p.m.
Greg Smith, owner of Mitchell Hardware on Craven Street, died on Monday morning at work sometime between 7 a.m. and store opening at 8 a.m.
A store worker found him unresponsive and called an ambulance, according to a source close to Mr. Smith.
Cause of death was not immediately known. Some news media list the cause as a massive heart attack, although that has not been confirmed.
The following statement was released by the staff of Mitchell Hardware this morning.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of a father, grandfather, and dear friend. This morning, Greg Smith, owner of Mitchell Hardware located at 215 Craven Street, passed away. He was 62 years-old. All of us – his family, friends, and the Mitchell Hardware family – will miss him terribly.
“Greg was an ambassador for New Bern. He was always willing to share a story about our beloved town. He never met a stranger, gave the best bear hugs, loved to laugh, and was always smiling. Mitchell Hardware was his heart and soul. He was here before the sun came up and, often times, until long after sunset. He never took a day off, and looked after the employees as if we were his own. Our biggest cheerleader inside and outside of the store, Greg was supportive of so many New Bern endeavors… charitable fundraisers, city projects, Mumfest, the arts community, local theatre, the military, Swiss Bear and the Chamber of Commerce.
More details will be added as they become available.
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Greg Smith, I only met him once. I went in to Mitchell Hardware to buy 2 special New Bern mugs so that I could remember New Bern every time I drank my hot tea. I moved to Denver. Greg knew why I was there and insisted that he get me the 2 best quality mugs he had behind the counter. They were a better quality and he said they must make it to Denver without breaking. I also bought a New Bern pot holder. Greg gave me a magnet and some pencils. I left the store that day feeling like Greg made a difference in my day and I am sure that he made a difference to this wonderful town. You will be missed.
This is just so sad on so many levels. Greg was a great ambassador of New Bern and a true gentleman. He will be sorely missed. Blessings to his family and friends.
So very sad, we love that store and visit everytime we come to New Bern
My sympathies to your family in this trying time
So hate to hear this. He was the nicest guy. He gave me two wooden candle Christmas tree ornaments years ago. I was in there looking around and saw them on their tree and asked did he have any for sale. He said no and it had been a few years since they had those. I continued shopping around and he came to me with two (one of Each color wrapped in tissue paper). I still cherish them and enjoy them each year. Very sweet man and gesture I remember it every time I would go into the store and each time I see them on my own tree. Prayers for peace and comfort to his loved ones.
How sad! Greg was the consummate champion of the merchants of downtown New Bern. He was one of the most community-minded individuals I have ever had the pleasure to know. Sincerest condolences to his family, his extended family and his employees. Greg will be greatly missed by our community!
Mr. Greg is one of those amazing gentleman I’ve met since living in New Bern the out going support he has given to all in this community is simply phenomenal! He will never be forgotten and has truly been a blessing for everyone he has come in contact with. My family and I will continue to pray for his family.
Going into Mitchell's was always fun when visiting downtown New Bern. And Greg would always greet you like you were an old friend even if he didn't remember your name. He had a knack for his business and must have had a strong will not to cave into the more modern hardware store model. It won't be the same not seeing him inside or outside the store.
In my 20 years knowing Greg I can honestly say he was the kindest person I have ever met he would always go out of his way to come shake my hand and say hey friend and when I left he would shake my hand and say bye friend he would always ask about my family and always had a smile on his face when Greg was made the broke the mold he will truly be missed
Each time we came to visit family, a trip to the hardware store was a must. Not only was this store nostalgic in so many ways, but the warmth of Mr Greg & employees made him & New Bern a very special place & experience. We are saddened to hear of his passing.