https://my.gather.app/remember/sylvester-smith-2024

It is with deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Sylvester "Smitty" Smith. Smitty passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at his Henrico County, Virginia home. He was born the second oldest of 12 children to the late Colleen M. Smith in Guilford County, North Carolina, on April 7, 1947. Smitty spent most of his life in Louisa County, Virginia, where he graduated from A.G. Richardson High School in 1965.  It was also in Louisa where he touched the lives of so many with his humor and unending kindness.

After high school, Smitty enlisted in the United States Army. During his time in the Army, he received many honors which included the following; National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal Award, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Sharpshooter Badge. He was honorably discharged in 1972.

Smitty was a man who loved to work and provide for his family. He held many jobs, but most notably was supervisor at Dominion Virginia Power, Deputy Sheriff for the Louisa County Sheriff's Department and Louisa County High School Transportation. He retired from Dominion Virginia Power and the Louisa County Sheriff Department, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.

A proud member of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Masonic Lodge #113 for 47 years, he served as a Past Worship Master. He was also a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign War (VFW). After retirement, Smitty enjoyed watching his Dallas Cowboys, fishing, hitting golf balls, watching Western movies, playing word puzzles on his phone, hanging out with his close friends, and most importantly, entertaining his grandchildren. Their smiles and laughter were the joys of his life. He constantly bragged about his grandchildren to the point that some of the statements were unbelievable, but he wanted to use up all of his grandfather's bragging rights. He was also proud of the fact that he "lucked out" with two great sons-in-law, whom he knew would take care of his daughters.

During the pastoral leadership of Reverend Todd Winston, Smitty became a member of the Rising Sun Baptist Church.

Smitty was preceded in death by his mother, Colleen Smith, and his siblings, Gail Griffin, Carol Griffin, Willie Smith, Reginald Griffin and Michael Griffin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Frances Smith, and their two devoted daughters, Faye (Robert) Mickens, and LaToya (Kevin) Murray;  brothers, Ernest (Beulah) Smith, Bruce Wayne (Stephanie) Smith and Larry Jerome (LaTonya) Griffin; his sisters, Antonia Smith, Frances Pennix and Greta (Victor) Walker; as well as his four adorable grandchildren, Brittany Mickens, Bria Mickens, Kameron Murray and Kade Murray; one loving great-grandson, Carter Charity; sisters-in-law, Velma Johnson, Julia Jackson and Angie Anderson; other nephews, nieces, cousins, and an abundance of friends.

Smitty's life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and joy. He will be remembered not only for his achievements,  but also for the love and laughter he spread, wherever he went. As we mourn the loss of a life well-lived, we also celebrate the light that he brought to our lives and so many others.

To each of you in the Smith family, we at  D. D. Watson offer our most sincere and heartfelt sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.