Nelson Smith

Nelson Smith

Nelson Eddy Smith, 74, joined his family in Heaven on August 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. Born March 7, 1951, in Martinsville, VA, to the late Robert Smith and Eula Williams, and predeceased by brother, Melvin Smith; cousin, Joan Stavig, who was always like an older sister.

Nelson is survived by brother, Kenneth Smith, and spouse, Terry S. Smith; daughter, Christy Rahman (Marvin); sons, Kenneth Smith (Serenity), and Jeffrey Smith; stepson, Mark Lawson (Lisa); nephew, Robert Smith (Kim); niece, Tresa Andrews; plus five grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Proud to be a 1969 graduate of Martinsville High School, the first graduating class from the new school. He was selected for the All-District band his Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years, and attended Danville Community College and Tidewater Community College.

Nelson served in the Active/Reserve Navy and Army Reserve, retiring in 1994 as an SFC. He was a civil servant for 31 years, retiring in 2004. Nelson was chosen as Staff Civilian of the year in 1997.

He was a member of the American Legion, Fleet Reserve, AMVETS, and Moose International. He served as Vice President/President of a Civic League in Norfolk, VA. Nelson was a life-long NY Yankees and a Washington Commanders fan. He loved country and bluegrass music and his favorite radio show hosts/friends. He liked to play golf, was an avid thrift store junkie, and a family genealogy researcher.

Some of his greatest accomplishments can be seen in his children. An amazing father, he participated in every aspect of their lives from theater to Boy Scouts, Dad was always there offering encouragement, support, and love. Over the years, he cared for his mom, Eula, and his brother, Kenny, with the same unending devotion. The love he felt for them could not be measured, and this dedication to family will certainly be his legacy.

The family would like to give special thanks to Lilly Ledford and Angel Smith, plus all the nurses from Sentara Home Health and Gentiva Hospice for their superior care.

A viewing will be held at Norris Funeral Services in Martinsville, VA, on August 29, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m. Funeral service will be conducted at First Baptist Church, 23 Starling Ave, Martinsville, VA, on August 30, 2025, at 2 p.m., with the burial immediately following at Boone's Chapel in 2228 Circle Creek Rd, Penhook, VA.

Norris Funeral Services, Inc. and Crematory, Martinsville, VA, is serving the Smith family. Online condolences may be made at www.norrisfuneral.com