CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) – Former Food Lion CEO Tom Smith has died, according to Smith’s friends.
Smith worked for the grocery chain, which was started in Salisbury, NC in 1957, for decades. Ronnie Smith, son of Food Lion co-founder Wilson Smith, confirms that Tom Smith (no relation) died on Friday after a brief illness.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former CEO and leader Tom Smith, who was instrumental in the growth and success of Food Lion,” a Food Lion spokesperson told WBTV. “During his 29 years of service, he made significant contributions to the company. Their dedication, hard work and passion were invaluable in driving Food Lion forward. We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and former colleagues during this time. His legacy will be forever remembered and cherished in our Food Lion family.”
Smith is known for his philanthropic efforts at Catawba College, Salisbury Repository, among other charitable endeavors.
“He is known for his long tenure with Food Lion and the impact Food Lion has had from an economic development standpoint … from a local standpoint, he has been a philanthropist who has impacted our community by to the most vulnerable, from Rowan Helping Ministries to the depot in Salisbury that bears his name. We could go on and on. He has had an incredible impact on our community. He will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on.” , said Salisbury Mayor Karen Alexander.
Funeral arrangements have not been completed at this time. This is a developing story.
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