Michael J. Smith

Michael J. Smith

Michael Smith Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 26, 2011.
A native of North Carolina, Michael J. Smith graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1967 and served in Vietnam. After the war, he became a Navy test pilot and, in 1980, was selected for the astronaut program.

On January 28, 1986, Smith, the Challenger's pilot, was one of seven crew members killed when the space shuttle exploded seconds after lift-off. It was to have been Smith's first mission in space.

Twenty-five years later, we remember astronaut Michael Smith and invite you to share memories and condolences in his Guest Book.

Sign Michael Smith's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 6, 2019

Michael Covington posted to the memorial.

April 17, 2014

Mark Laue posted to the memorial.

January 22, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.

7 Entries

Michael Covington

August 6, 2019

What an American patriot and hero from a fellow Navy veteran of the same Vietnam era. Rest in peace and thank you for your faithful service to America!

Mark Laue

April 17, 2014

Michael Smith,I thank you for your service to our country and to our Space Program.May God be with your family in this time of need. You will always be remembered RIP Challenger Seven Crew

January 22, 2014

For God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name by ministering and continuing to minister to the holy ones (Hebrews 6:10). Michael will never be forgotten for all the work done for the NASA community and especially those encouraged and inspired in this wonderful persons' care. May God continue to strengthen your family in these “times hard to deal with” (2Tim 3:1), especially without a beloved one such as Michael J. Smith.

Laura Lowery

October 1, 2013

Will always remember that day. Thank You for your service. May you rest in peace. Prayers to your family.

KAMIRA HOLMES

February 12, 2013

HE DIED IN A CRASH WITH HIS CREW HE DIED JANUARY 28 1986

January 28, 2013

A true American hero. RIP Sir.

SCOTT CHAMBERLAND

February 6, 2011

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

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Sign Michael Smith's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 6, 2019

Michael Covington posted to the memorial.

April 17, 2014

Mark Laue posted to the memorial.

January 22, 2014

Someone posted to the memorial.