Walter H. Shearin

SMITHFIELD - Walter House Shearin, 90, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2005, after a long illness. He was a native of Warren County, N.C., and was the son of the late Walter John and Roberta Neal Shearin. After graduating in 1933 from John Graham High School in Warrenton, N.C., he later graduated from Norfolk, Virginia Business College. He was age 18 when he was employed at once by P. D. Gwaltney Jr., President of I.T.T. Gwaltney. It was his first and only job for 42 years. He retired in 1976 as Director, Secretary and Treasurer of the company. He always treasured the friendship and close working relationship with the three Gwaltney brothers, P. D. III, Howard and Julius, all deceased. Walter always remarked that they hired him and treated him as a son. A gentle and caring person, Walter never faded with age and was a strong believer in his Lord and Savior, Jesus. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church for 70 years. He once had a perfect attendance record for 22 years in Sunday school. He served faithfully and effectively in many capacities of the church, such as past member of its administrative board, finance committee, past treasurer of the church, past president and member of Wesleyman's Bible Class. He was charter member of Isle of Wight Hunt Club. He was a member of Khedive Shrine Temple, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Scottish Rites, Smithfield Union Lodge #18, a 51-year Mason and a member of Suffolk Shrine Club. He was blessed with a magnetic and vibrant personality. He was an avid hunter, loved ball games and horse racing. He was a great supporter of youth sports. He will be remembered for his keen memory and wisdom. Walter had a heart of gold and never met a stranger. He loved people, and loved to talk about old times with his friends. His family knew him as a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather, who took great pride in the accomplishments of each grandchild. Survivors include his beloved wife and faithful caregiver, Grace Carter Shearin; daughter and husband, Evelyn and Dwight Doggett Jr.; two grandchildren, William D. Doggett and Susan V. Doggett; one sister, Lizzie S. Clary of Gaston, N.C.; and a number of nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31, in Trinity United Methodist Church with the Rev. Will Montgomery officiating. Burial will follow in St. Luke's Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the residence. Memorial donations may be made to Trinity United Methodist Building Fund, 201 Cedar St., Smithfield, Va. The family would especially like to thank Heartland Hospice Group for their loving care and support. Arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home.