Victor Landrum Smith

Victor Landrum Smith, 89, of Roanoke, Va., died Thursday, October 30, 2008 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Salem, Va. after several years of declining health. A former Charlotte, North Carolina resident for 40 years, Victor was born in Bainbridge, Georgia on August 1, 1919 to the late Mr. and Mrs. Varday Landrum Smith. He was also preceded in death by a brother, John L. Smith and a sister, Virginia S. Lenhardt. After graduating from Central High School in Charlotte, Mr. Smith went to work for Havertys Furniture Company. His career with Havertys would span 30 years, ending with the position of Manager of the Roanoke, Virginia store. Upon his retirement, he and his wife, the former Margaret Loren Franklin of Charlotte, whom he married in 1954, became part owners in Colony Manor Furniture, which they operated for the next 15 years. Victor and Margaret then began to truly enjoy their retirement. Victor's great love of flying led him in 1943, during World War II, to enter the Army Air Corps, becoming a Second Lieutenant and B-24 pilot and joining the air offensive in Europe. He was assigned to the 703rd Bombardment Squadron commanded by Major James M. Stewart, the noted actor. On January 5, 1944, while on a bombing raid over Germany, his plane was shot down resulting in his incarceration as a POW until he was liberated in 1945. He was awarded the Purple Heart and Air Medal and promoted to Captain prior to leaving the service. Mr. Smith is survived by his loving wife, Margaret, of 54 years; and several nieces and nephews. A cryptside service will be held at 12 noon Wednesday, November 5, 2008, in Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Road, Charlotte, North Carolina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements by Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 540-982-2100.