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Albert Smith Obituary
Born and raised with his family in Newport News, he graduated from Newport News High School in 1956. He also considered Hampton as his lifelong home since he had a loving relationship with his great-uncle and great-aunt, Albert H. and Florence Barker, whom he lived with and cared for during their senior years.
Bert graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Business Education and proud memories of his participation with the class of 1960 Corps of Cadets. He attended graduate school at the College of William and Mary where he received both his Masters Degree in Education and his Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Administration. He also served six years with the Virginia Air National Guard.
His professional career included thirty years experience in teaching and secondary administration with the Hampton City Public Schools and the York County Public Schools from which he retired. He was a former classroom teacher of math, physical science, economics, and business accounting. He has served as a middle school principal, high school principal, and Director of Secondary Education. As a state and nationally recognized adviser of student government organizations and journalism publications, especially award winning school yearbooks, Bert was always proud of the many accomplishments of his students and his fellow colleagues.
In October 1994 he was inducted into the Virginia High School League's Hall of Fame at Charlottesville for his recognition as a Founding Father of the VHSL Publications Program. In April 1995 he was honored in San Diego by the National Journalism Education Association and was presented its National Lifetime Achievement Award for his service to scholastic journalism.
Bert joined the staff of the Virginia Air & Space Center in March 1992, as it began its official opening in April of that year. He retired from the VASC after 17 years as its Volunteer Coordinator.
He has been an active member and past deacon of First Presbyterian Church Hampton.
Bert was preceded in death by his parents, James J. and Marguerite H. Smith; his sisters, Delia Ann Smith (infant) and Kathleen S. Brown.
He is survived by his wife, Ronda Ellis Smith; his two sons, Kevin B. and wife, Becky of Ramstein AFB, Germany; Shannon E. and wife, Nida of Travis AFB, California; two granddaughters, Annie Lynn and Ellen Elizabeth; his brother, Robert J. Smith of Hobbs, New Mexico; and several nieces and nephews. Bert was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He was a compassionate man who brightened the day for all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 1 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church Hampton. The family will receive friends at a visitation-reception at the church immediately following the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Virginia Air & Space Center (VASC) for the Bert Smith Memorial, 600 Settlers Landing Rd., Hampton, 23669-4033; or to First Presbyterian Church, 514 S. Armistead Ave., Hampton, 23669.
Arrangements are under the care of R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home, Hampton, Va. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Albert Smith
May 27, 2010
There is a special place in Heaven for men like Mr. Smith. As a military dependent who went to 3 high schools in 4 years, he never made me feel like the "odd one out." He understood the difficulties of always being the new kid. Two of my siblings and I all graduated from PHS under Mr. Smiths' tutelage (Pat '70, Me '72 and Alison '74).
I also had the good fortune of finding Mr. Smith again when my husband and I were "new" to the area and looking for a high school for our eldest. He was the substitute principal at York HS. That made up my mind that our daughter would go there. She did and got to know Mr. Smith too.
Thank you Mr. Smith for being the kindest man to a kid who was always the "new kid."
Ann (Gavin) DeLong
Jeffrey Ruddell
April 23, 2010
It was my honor to know Mr. Smith from 1969 through 1970. As Principals go, it was always such a pleasure to run into him in the halls or even stop by his office. He was a very positive man and gave us a lot of life long guidance tips in just a couple years. It was a pleasure seeing him at the All-Class reunion in 1997, and saying hello again.
My thoughts and prayers to his family
Thank you, Mr. Smith!
Jeff Ruddell
Dannette Horton (nee McYoung)
December 6, 2009
To the family and friends of Mr. Albert Smith. I would like to extend my most sincere condolence. Mr. Smith was the kindest most capable man who ever took on the challenge of steering a bunch of kids through their most difficult years,i.e. High School. I attended Pembroke my sophomore and junior year (1970-1971) and during that time loved every day I was in school. Mr. Smith set the tone and created a school where ideas flourished and great things happened! I will always cherish my memories of this remarkable man.
Gregory Ruddell
December 2, 2009
To the family and friends of Mr. Albert Smith, I'd like to say how much he meant to me during my three years at Pembroke. I learned first that he was a friend and second that he took the responsibility of principal to a level students don't often see. He concerned himself foremost in our welfare that often exceeded the school grounds and our problems were always his as well. As the SCA President in '71, He helped guide me in the difficult problems that we were confronted with and even "encouraged" the change we proposed and won in the dress code for our school! He told me that allowing the the students that victory, created a better and more respectful environment for all of us.
His smile and compassion will surely be missed by all of us that had the good fortune to have known him. I will always think of him as a real friend that I loved.
Ruby Dardy-Gatling
November 28, 2009
I remember Mr. Smith when I was at Pembroke High School during the 69-72 years. Mr. Smith was a very personable person and he treated all with respect and dignity. He was fun to talk with and he enjoyed his job which was evident in the way he would walk the halls and take care of his business. He will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him. My sincere sympathy goes out to his entire family. Know that others care and share your grief and your loss. May God continue to bless each and every one of you in the days ahead. Hold tight to God's unchanging hands because he will never leave you alone and he will sustain you through this time.
Dave Carroll
November 24, 2009
The Smith Family, May God bless you in this difficult time. Bert was my principal, my friend, my rock. I still remember him each morning before classes over the P.A. system just wanting to touch "BASE" with everyone on the details of the day. In appreciation for his support in our senior year during a student assembly we gave him a white baseball base so he could always touch base with us.
WITH THE GREATEST RESPECT
David G.Carroll
SCA President 74-75
JV HYDE
November 23, 2009
I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LOST AS WELL AS ALL THE OTHER LOSTS FROM 1970 UNTIL 2009. BE AT PEACE THAT HE IS IN HIS REST AND NO LONGER WORRIED ABOUT THE PROBLEMS OF THIS WORLD. WE ALL WILL MEET AGAIN.
JVHYDE
CLASSMATE OF 1970
Carol Tillema
November 20, 2009
Dear family of Mr. Albert Smith,
We Pembroke Pirates grieve with you, for Mr. Smith was beloved by all. His kind spirit and his enthusiasm for his students and faculty touched the community of our beloved Hampton, Virginia, and even farther.
He was honored greatly at the 2011 reunion, thanks to the great party planning of Joanne Bluhm. I am sure he felt the genuine love that nearly five hundred Pirate attendees expressed.
Before every PHS reunion, I would call Mr. Smith to invite him to our get-togethers, and like many of our star faculty, he would attend now and again. At one reunion about fifteen years ago, he showed up with a large box of PHS yearbooks (1969-71) for me. I had told him that I had never received my yearbook after graduating in 1971 because I had moved. What I had lost he gave back to me twenty times.
I loved Mr. Albert K. Smith and will miss him greatly.
With sincerity and gratitude,
November 19, 2009
Ronda and Bert's family. I met Bert a few years ago when I first started volunteering at the air and space center, and even from the first day he was a good friend. He will be deeply missed by all who ever met him, and my prayers are with you guys.
Sayata Ghose
November 19, 2009
I met Bert when I started volunteering at VASC. He was a great coordinator, knowledgeable, friendly, always greeting everyone with a smile on his face. All of us at VASC will miss him dearly.
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.
Janet Andrews
November 19, 2009
Ronda,
I taught math at Tabb Middle when Bert was our principal. He often spoke so proudly of you.
Bert is my favorite principal.
Alfred Lambert
November 18, 2009
I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Bert was my inspiration and mentor at the VASC. His warm greeting and gentle smile will be missed.
Gerry Tylavsky
November 18, 2009
Dear Ronda,
You and Bert shared so many wonderful times together, which will remain in your heart forever. Bert has contributed in the education of youth through his work in both Hampton and York County School Divisions as well as with the Air and Space Museum.
I hope that you are comforted with the knowledge of his great love for his family and his legacy in education.
Bert was a fine and gentle man.
Warmest wishes,
Gerry
Angela Fortune
November 18, 2009
As I look back to my High School years, I realize Mr. Smith must have been a positive role player in opportunties afforded to the class of 1976; and I thank you for allowing us to have him during those transition years. May you continue to receive blessings and understanding for all that you do, always. Thanks be to God!
Kathy Lemke Haun
November 17, 2009
I was saddened to hear of Mr. Smith's death. I was fortunate to know Mr. Smith both as a principal and a neighbor. His guidance and leadership were an inspiration to myself and many other young people. May it comfort you to know that so many people care and are thinking of you and the family at this time.
PHS 74
Rudy Dardy
November 17, 2009
Mr Smith as I called him many times at school. Yes, he was a great man and a fair man to all. He gave me many words of wisdom not only as a principal but as a human being who cared about his job and his students. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. This is truely a great loss to the education community of Hampton.
John and Connie Bush
November 17, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Pearl Osby
November 17, 2009
Dear Rhonda and family,
I met Bert when I came to the Virginia Air and Space Center as the Visitor Service Manager. Bert welcomed me with opened arms and that wonder smile he had.
I would always say tothe visitors and new employees of the center, if you had any questions, about the center or the area just call Bert. He was a walking book of knowlege. I will miss him and all the kindness he showed to everyone he met.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Sandi Evans
November 17, 2009
I have very fond memories of Pembroke High School. I realize only now that so much of it was due to the positive tone set by Mr. Smith. A good man.
Sandi Carver Evans, Class of '77
Faye Cordle Keenan
November 17, 2009
Dearest Ronda,
I pray the good Lord will strengthen everyone in your family during this difficult time of Bert's passing. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Loving prayers to you from your HHS 1960 friend,
Susan McInnis
November 16, 2009
Dear Rhonda, Kevin, and Shannon,
Our entire family is deeply saddened by your tremendous loss. Bert was a remarkable man in so many ways and certainly his contributions to the community and to education will be long remembered. We loved his smile and the way he was so quick to laugh at our lame jokes. He was such a gentle man and you all have been such a wonderful family. We pray that your memories of happier days will sustain you. For sure, I seldom buy a cup of coffee that I don't think of Bert Smith and smile. He was a blessing to a lot of lives.
With deep sympathy and love to all of you, Neill, Susan, David, Maria, and Scott
Frankie Brown
November 16, 2009
To the Smith Family,
My prayer and deepest sympathy to all of you. Mr.Smith was a very caring man, he meant more to his students then he will ever know. He was truly loved and it showed by the reception he received at the 2007 class reunion which I had the honor to attend. He will be truly missed but not forgoten .
On behave of my brothers and sisters from Lincoln St. I would like to say THANK YOU! Mr. Smith for being there watching over us and guiding us to be the best we could be. May God Bless You and may you know you are always in our hearts.
Frankie Brown Class of 76
Captain Albuquerque Fire Dept
Albuquerque New Mexico
November 16, 2009
when someone we loved has passed us by, it's not time to sit and cry, we have to go on and live for our love while love watches from up above, a better time with no cryin or pain, loves tears now grow flowers when it rains, talking to friends and sharing your feelings, it's good for a new beginning..donna dooley ingle class of "72"
Bonnie Mittelmaier
November 16, 2009
Please accept our sincere and heartfelt sympathy and condolences during this very difficult time of loss. Mr. Smith is remembered fondly by the KHS Classes of 1968 & 1969.
Bonnie Bridger Mittelmaier
KHS Classes of 1968 & 1969
John Whistler
November 16, 2009
Dear Ronda and Family,
Bert was a special man to us all at the Air and Space Center. He will be remembered by many as a wonderful educator, leader, mentor and friend. He showed me compassion and brotherly love. He inspired the volunteers, teachers and co-workers by his knowledge,ability,dedication and consideration of others His wit and sense of humor made volunteering a joy.
He was very special to me and will be greatly missed.
Dear Lord, guard him well as he will be a treasure to your kingdom.
John Whistler and family,
Howard Rice
November 16, 2009
Mr. Smith was part of where I came from. Kind,Caring come to mind in reflecting back on him. Truly someone who cared about the students that he was under his wing....
Howard Rice PHS Class of '73
E.B. Moore, Jr
November 16, 2009
I was sadden to hear of the passing of Mr. Smith. He was such a great leader at Pembroke High (Class of '76) and you felt like he had your best interest at heart, sincerely. I ran into him at the Virginia Air and Space Center several years ago and he ws still the same caring man he always was. He will be missed by many. Our school was small but we were a family and he was part of everyone's family, making you feel relaxed when you approached him. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Shirley Vuxta Woolard
November 16, 2009
Dear Smith family, and as a graduate of Pembroke High School, class of '73, I only have the fondest of memories of Mr. Smith. He had a gentle character about him, quiet but in charge. His caring, kind and modest nature define him. I feel grateful to have seen him once again at our 2007 reunion and applaud him again for his outstanding leadership! I pray your memories will get you through this most difficult time and may you find comfort in knowing there are so many friends that care. God Bless you all.
Michael Recant
November 16, 2009
I attended Pembroke High School during its first two years. Mr. Smith was an integral part of the success in that difficult time. Beyond that, his personal support to me, during that time, has stayed with me through the years.
Judy McKinley
November 16, 2009
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. Mr. Smith was a wonderful person. My Mother, Anita McKinley, worked with him at Pembroke. Everyone thought so much of him. May God comfort you with His peace and love. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Much Love, Judy McKinley Fernald, Tom Fernald, and Anita McKinley
Bruce Sims
November 16, 2009
Ronda & Family:
My condoleences on the loss of this great man. My friendship with Burt
began in the first grade at Wilson School and continued throughout our lives. His
devotion to to family and education of
young people was witnessed personally when
I took my young grand children to the Space Museum and he took time to answer
all of their questions. I share your loss.
God be with you in this time of grief.
November 16, 2009
Ronda, we're so very sorry about your loss. Please know that you're in our thoughts and prayers and we pray that in time your sadness will be replaced with memories of the wonderful life you had with Bert. God Bless you. Love, Jim & Anne (Davis) Holland
November 16, 2009
Dear Smith Family, Please accept my sincere condolences and prayers at your loss. Mr. Smith made a significant, positive, impact on my life and on the academic and social eduation of our community. He will, no doubt, be missed.
Sincerely,
Colonel John Carter
Washington, DC
PHS '71
thomas klett
November 16, 2009
I attended PHS in 1970 and Mr Smith provided great leadership to the school and the community during a challenging time. God bless you during these difficult times.
November 16, 2009
It was an honor to attend Pembraoke High (class of 71) with Mr. Smith. Thank you for the wonderful job not only with your staff but students as well.
Cindy Svec-Atkinson
Lisa Giles
November 16, 2009
Ronda, please know that Bert was a tremendous friend to the Virginia High School League and scholastic journalism. I looked forward to working with him each year at the VHSL Championship Journalism Workshop. His perspective on issues was always balanced and reasonable. He was always positive and supportive. He will truly be missed.
November 16, 2009
Mr. Smith family, My deepest sympathy to you all. He was a great man at Pembroke High School as our principal.We are love him and he will be miss. I want to say thank you Mr. Smith for watching over me at school. Class of '76.
~ Debra Harrelson Williams, Hampton, Virginia
Janet Tucker - Blitch
November 16, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the family on the passing of a kind man. He indeed was an inspiration to all of us at Pembroke High (class of '76). Thank you Mr. Smith for being a great person and principal. God Bless!
Deborah Harrison
November 16, 2009
I feel privileged to have attended Pembroke when Mr. Smith was our leader. His kindness and patience will always be remembered. It was great to be able to attend the 2007 All Class Reunion where we were able to honor and thank him one last time. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. I was fortunate to be a part of the PHS Class of '72
Karen Harden
November 16, 2009
Thanks to Bert for his generous service to Virginia High School League and scholastic journalism. Always a gentleman, always a voice of reason, he earned our respect and our admiration through his commitment and loyalty over decades. He will be missed, but remain a model to us all.
Larry Elliott
November 16, 2009
A great, quiet man. The Pembroke class of '70 will miss him.
William Wood
November 16, 2009
"He was a true role model." As long as we remember him, his love and passion for for students that fell under his leadership, at Pembroke High, will never die!
My Condolences to his family!
Carolyn (Jones) Parker
November 16, 2009
My deepest sympathy and regrets to the family on the passing of a kind man. He indeed was an inspiration to all of us at Pembroke High (class of '76). Thank you Mr. Smith for being a great person and principal. God Bless!
Cheryl Carnevale
November 16, 2009
My deepest symphathies to Mr. Smith's family. As a 1976 graduate of Pembroke High School, I will still treasure the security and leadership he gave so many of us. I will also remember the first time I heard my name called across the intercom-- was I in trouble? No-- Mr. Smith wanted to make sure I felt better because I had been sick! He was a wonderful person and will be missed.
Cheryl Carnevale Class of 1976
Marie Hamilton
November 16, 2009
Ronda and Family. My sympathy is with all of you. I was a secretary at Tabb Middle School while Bert was Principal. I enjoyed working with him. He was a very nice, caring, and thoughtful man to his staff, students, and parents. I know he will be missed.
Marie Hamilton
Anne Beard
November 16, 2009
Rhonda, your sweet husband was my homeroom teacher in the very first year of KHS (1963). He was always so kind. I also enjoyed working on the yearbook staff with his guidance and have always had fond memories. What a legacy he has left. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Anne and Frank Beard (Chagrin Falls, OH)
Philip Egert
November 16, 2009
Dear Rhonda and Family,
It has been a real joy getting to know Bert as the human being and neighbor over the last 10 years. As my principal more years ago than I care to remember, he was always there for his students. There was no issue that was too small for his attention. My years at Pembroke have always been some of the most fondest memories in my life.
It was such a spontaneous sincere tribute to Bert last year at our reunion when there was not a dry eye in the crowd when he was introduced. His life effected so many in so many of us in so many wonderful ways, that only time will tell.
His presence on this planet will be sincerely missed.
Kay Forrest
November 16, 2009
Ronda, my heart aches for you. The love between you and Bert radiated and warmed the world around you. Knowing you and Bert has made me a better person. No words can say how grateful I am for all the support Bert gave me in my career. His comfort in difficult times steadied my soul. I send you and your family my love, my prayers, and my empathy for your loss.
Vera Moore Jones
November 15, 2009
The loss of Mr. Smith's passing has reverberated throughout the classmates of dear ole Pembroke High (class of '72). Mr. Smith was our principal during a precious time of our lives (our high school years) and he helped us to transition into adulthood by his quiet & mild spirit. Thank you Mr. Smith for that & my Sincere Condolences to his family!
Emily Barker
November 15, 2009
Ronda and Family,
Bert was a great man and will be dearly missed. I have had the pleasure of working with Bert on travel plans for the last nine years for the Volunteers of the Virginia Air and Space Center. I enjoyed the discussions that we had and seeing his smile. His smile filled the room with love. He was so caring and loved everyone. May the many memories that you have comfort you.
Kay McVaugh Sluger
November 15, 2009
"Cousin" Bert was special to me and I will miss him. Although I didn't see him as often as I would like, we kept in touch. I adored his parents and his siblings and remember all of the wonderful times we had as children. He was truly a remarkable man and he will be missed.
Kim Hinson
November 15, 2009
Dear Rhonda,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Bert was a wonderful man and did so much for the Virginia Air & Space Center. We have missed his smiling face since he retired and feel so blessed that he was a part of our museum family. It just won’t be the same without him. Bert touched so many lives in a positive influence way. May you find comfort in your happy memories.
Vickie Pizzillo
November 15, 2009
Ronda,Kevin,Shannon and family: When I rec'd the call from Myrna on Friday I knew from the tone in her voice it was not good news. It's hard to believe that I have known Bert for 54 years! Words cannot express the dear and treasured place that the Bert Smith Family has and will always have in the Aldrich,Poncin and Pizzillo's hearts! Rhonda, may God be with you now and always and give you strength and continually wrap his arms around you and your family as he has promised us he will be there for us at all times. Ronda, we truly loved Bert so ... he was truly a wonderful man,husband, father,friend and a true "southern gentleman." Take care my dear sweet friend and I look forward to us re-connecting in the not too distant future. God Bless, Vickie and Peppy
Ross Struthers
November 15, 2009
Mr Smith was with us from the very beginning of Pembroke HS. His leadership was evident as we navigated through the early days when no one knew what to expect, or how the disparate student body would come together. He will be missed.
Jean Rochelle-Revell
November 15, 2009
I join with so many others who knew Mr. Smith as the principal of Pembroke High School in offering our deepest sympathy on his passing. Although it is little consolation at this sad time, the outpour of sympathy on his loss is most certainly an indication of the many lives he touched and a life well-lived. I feel blessed to have been a part of it.
In Sympathy, Jean Rochelle-Revell (PHS ’73)
Tootie Joynes
November 15, 2009
Ronda and Family,
So sorry to hear about Bert. My Thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you confort.
Franklin Fan
November 15, 2009
Mr. Smith, Thank you and miss you.
Without you I could never finish those 3 hard years of high school. Thank you for your encouragement and
patience.
Susan & Bill English
November 15, 2009
We were truly blessed to have lived across the street from Bert for 38 years. His smile & friendly greetings brightened so many days! We will miss him so much! Kevin & Shannon, you know we will be there for your Mom. Ronda, anything, anytime, we're there. We love you all very much. May you find strength and comfort in your strong faith during this difficult time.
Hazel & Charlie Adams
November 15, 2009
We will all miss Bert. He seemed to be everywhere whenever someone needed him.I knew him from the schools, church & the space museum; & his wife from the church women. He certainly was a wonderfully, kind man. May God strengthen his remaining family in this sad time.
November 15, 2009
I want to say "Thank you" one more time to Mr. Smith. I worked as an office assistant during my study hall hour and had the opportunity to get to know him. I hope that your memories of him will bring you comfort too.
Sarah Anderson Tiller
Class of 1970
Karla Gilmore
November 15, 2009
From the midwest, I graduated from Pembroke HS after only one year in Hampton. I did not know Mr. Smith well - however, trying to get my diploma and living with my sister, I could not afford graduation. Mr. Smith wanted me to attend the ceremony, pulled the money from his wallet and paid for my cap and gown. Some 30 years later, working in a public school system here and remembering him, I have gratefully had the opportunity to 'pay it forward'.
Dave Ancel
November 15, 2009
I am very sorry for your loss. Mr. Smith was also my principal at Pembroke High (Class of 75" I know he will be missed by thousands of friends and students. God bless Mr. Smith
Richard Byrnes
November 15, 2009
Mr Smith will always be remembered for his quiet,yet infectious enthusiasm and his calming influence when we his students needed guidance or assistance.
Vicky & Kathy Jenkins
November 15, 2009
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your loved ones at this most difficult time.At our class reunuion of 2007,we had the opportunity to share fond memories and have our pictures taken with our beloved principal and friend.He was admired and respected by all of us Pembroke Pirates.
Vicky Jenkins Carty-Class of 1971
Kathy Jenkins Jarrell-Class of 1972
Greg Wilson
November 15, 2009
I'm thankful for the leadership Mr. Smith brought to us all. I pray that God will bring your family comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Patricia Phifer LaCarrubba
November 15, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathy and prayers at this difficult time.
Myron Wood 1970
November 15, 2009
I am sad to hear of Mr. Smiths passing. I am also grateful that he was able to experience the appreciation from the graduates of Pembroke High at the 2007 reunion. How better than to measure your lifes work than to witness the results of your lifes labors with such appreciation. My memories of Mr. Smith and my classmates have never left me and I am proud to have known them all.
Pat (Parr) Barker
November 15, 2009
Mr. Smith was one of my business teachers at Kecoughtan High School (63-66). He was one of my all time favorite teachers! My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Kevin Stroop
November 15, 2009
As a Pembroke High School graduate, I remember Mr. Smith as a man of dignity and compassion, and by example he taught us to respect others as well as ourselves. He will be missed. To his family, thank you for sharing him with us, and I am so sorry for your (and our) loss. Godspeed, Mr. Smith.
Alice White Payne
November 15, 2009
Mr. Smith made us all proud to be Pembroke Pirates, and I thank him for the unity that he brought to us all. I enjoyed seeing Mr. Smith at First Presbyterian Church, where he was a servant of God, during the years following my graduation from Pembroke High School in 1974. God bless his family and may you rest in peace knowing that he will live eternally in heaven.
Judy Rowe-Kirkman (75)
November 15, 2009
Ronda,Kevin and Shannon,
My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to you all in this time of sadness and grief.
May it comfort you to know that Bert was a leader, a friend and a role model for us all at Pembroke. He was loved and well respected and will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
God Bless you all.
David Floyd
November 15, 2009
My thoughts and prayers also go to Mr Smiths' family and to all who were fortunate to have him as our principle and mentor. My best memory of him was when he was sitting on a table in the cafateria, crossed legs, chatting with a group of us about the tree that had been cut down in front of the school. He always took the time to explain what was happening with the school. God bless all. Dave Floyd, "71"
sandra moreland
November 15, 2009
Mr. smith was my HS principal from 1969-1970. He was a wonderful person.
I am sorry for your loss.
Sandra (McKinney)Moreland 1968-1970 PHS
Treresa Vance
November 15, 2009
Mr. Smith was the principal of Pembroke High School. I along with many other students loved and respected him. He was a wonderful man.
May he rest in peace.
God bless his family.
Ron Bowen
November 15, 2009
My thoughts, prayers and heartfelt sympathy are with the Smith family today as I read the sad news of his passing. We, the students of PHS '70 all held him in the greatest affection and respect. Having spoken briefly with him at the last reunion, I was reminded of the supurb job he performed leading the PHS family during those trying times as we matured into adulthood. He will be missed.
Janet Robb-Koehler
November 14, 2009
My condolences to the Albert Smith family.
I am a 1972 graduate of PHS and have fond memories of my high school years at Pembroke under the principalship of Mr. Smith. God bless each of you.
Roman and Melinda Schenkkan
November 14, 2009
Dear Ronda, Kevin and Shannon,
We are so sorry for your loss. Bert was such a wonderful, friendly, and smart man. We always enjoyed his company. May wonderful memories bring you comfort. Love, Roman and Melinda
Mary Henglein
November 14, 2009
Thanks for your support those many years ago.
November 14, 2009
My condolences to the family of Mr Smith, my high school principal, not too bad a guy.
Katy Bolger '73
Janet "Tucker" Blitch
November 14, 2009
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Julie Semola
November 14, 2009
Mr.Smith was my high school principal at Pembroke.
I was able to get know Mr. Smith a bit better after reading the beautiful words written about him in this guest book.
May the hearts of his loving family and friends be filled with joyous memories soon.
Julie Jones
class of 75
Chris Durden
November 14, 2009
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. Bert was a gentleman and worked with the members of IPMS Tidewater when we met at the VASC. We enjoyed his company at our meetings. Chris Durden, IPMS Tidewater
Gloria Moody-Coleman
November 14, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Susan Frierson
November 14, 2009
My first year of high school was the year that Mr. Smith guided Pembroke gracefully through its first year of integration. No one could have done a better job. He was a lovely man.
Bill Werb
November 14, 2009
Mr. Smith was an excellent principal in what could have been trying times. His leadership molded Pembroke into the community we became. He'll be missed, but his educational legacy will live for generations. My condolences on your loss.
November 14, 2009
To the family of Albert Smith....
I want to express my sadness for you at this time....although I did not know him personally, he was Principal of Pembroke High School, and I will always remember walking across the stage and shaking his hand when I was getting my diploma....He was a GREAT man, My thoughts go out to all of you..
Take care and God Bless, Glenda Vuxta
Scott Bregi
November 14, 2009
Rhonda
My name is Scott A. Bregi, a member of IPMS Tidewater. I am so sorry about Bert's passing. He was a great asset to both the Virginia Air and Space Center and to IPMS Tidewater. His his enduring efforts to the museum and to IPMS Tidewater will always be remembered. He was instrumental in assisting our club as a liaison in setting up museum displays and and securing a room for our club to hold our monthly meeting . He will always be fondly remembered and sorely missed.
Scott A. Bregi
IPMS Tidewater
Joanne Bluhm, Class of 1973
November 14, 2009
Mr. Smith was an important part of the several thousand students at Pembroke High School. We are grateful for his leadership as the Captain of our Mighty Pirates Corsair as he steered us through our high school years. Thank you, Mr Smith!
Scott Bregi
November 14, 2009
Dear Rhonda
So sorry for your loss. Bert was a wonderful man and was a great asset to the Virginia Air and Space Center and to IPMS Tidewater. His untiring assistance to tour club and its members will be sorely missed.
Scott A. Bregi
IPMS Tidewater
November 14, 2009
Dear Ronda and Family:
My name is Jim Ross, and I was one of Bert's docents at the Virginia Air and Space Center until I relocated to Georgia two years ago. Bert and I have remained close by sharing e-mails. My wife and I extend our deepest sympathy for your loss. Bert will be missed in more ways than can be expressed in words. My heart aches at the loss of a dear friend.
Jim and Audrey Ross
Powder Springs, Georgia
Jason Schreck
November 14, 2009
Rhonda and Bert's family. I have known Bert for 16 years of working at the Air and Space Center. He was a friend, a mentor and a major part of the lives of everyone who worked with him and knew him. Know he helped touch so many lives in his time there and he will be truly missed by all.
Peggy Coalter McConnell
November 14, 2009
Ronda, God has blessed us with unbelievable memories. I hope we can stay in touch. Bert was a great man in our eyes!
Aubrey & Rose Marie Tarkington & Family
November 14, 2009
Dear Ronda, Kevin, & Shannon
Our loving thoughts are with you.
May wonderful memories comfort you.
We will all miss Bert.
Take care of yourselves.
With Love,
Tom Norris
November 14, 2009
Ronda ... my condolences on Bert's passing. It was a pleasure to meet him and chat about old license plates, model trains, and early life in Pasture Point.
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