John David Smiley

John Smiley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 22, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on October 31, 1948, John lived a life filled with love, hard work and cherished memories. John was a was a hard working man who loved his family dearly. It was a source of pride to him that he rarely missed work. This work ethic is a quality that he passed on to his children. He liked to keep busy through his enjoyment of building things from porches to rebuilding their lake cabin. He loved spending time at the lake and enjoying a beer with his Lake Cisco family; Mike, Sandy and Gary. John could be stubborn, but he was tenacious. Whether you were family or a friend he was fiercely protective of you. He could come across as gruff, but he really was soft at heart.. John joined the Air Force in 1969. He did a fifteen month tour at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. From there he flew in and out of Vietnam as Crew Chief on C-130s. He loved his time in the Air Force. After four years he completed his service as a Staff Sargent. Back in civilian life he was a machinist for over 50 years. He was a shop foreman when he retired at 70. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 56 years, Gail Smiley; his son, Brandon (Lisa) Smiley; his daughter, Jennifer Hamm; his granddaughter, Hayley (Charles) Kieth; his grandson, Nathaniel Hamm; his step-grandchildren Bradley Duncan, Alyssa (John) Malone, Jacob (April) Duncan. He also leaves behind his precious great-grandchildren, Carolyn and Flynn Kieth, Ivy Walker, Fern Malone and Wyatt, Max, Colt and Mark Duncan. He is also survived by his sisters Geralene Herrington, Linda (Donnie) Fox and sister-in-law Darla Smiley. Who will all hold him close in their hearts. John was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ruby Smiley; and his brother Samuel Smiley. His family will honor his memory during a visitation at Sanders Funeral Home on August 28, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 PM. Friends and loved ones are invited to join them in celebrating the life of a remarkable man. A funeral service will follow at Sanders Memorial Chapel on August 29, 2025, at 2:00 PM. During this time, we will remember John's laughter, his love, and the countless ways he enriched their lives. After the service, John will be laid to rest at Fluvanna Cemetery. God saw you were getting tired and a cure could not be found. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands laid to rest. Although we loved you dearly we could not make you stay. It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone, for part of us was with you when God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide, and although we cannot see you, you are always by our side. Though he may no longer walk among us, his legacy of kindness and love will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. John Smiley's life was a gift, and his memory will be celebrated for years to come.