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John Edward Smiley

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John Smiley Obituary

Visit the Faulkner Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Foster-Faulkner Chapel website to view the full obituary.

John (Smiling Jack) Edward Smiley, 82, of Gwynn's Island passed away on November 15, 2017. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, wife of 53 years, Lena Rae, and daughter, Karen Rollins. He leaves behind two daughters, Debbie Torza (Jack) and Jackie Allen (Rick), Son-in-law Troy Rollins; eight grandchildren; Jack Torza, Jennifer Nosse, Jessica Dickson, Amy Deuell, Bridgette McCool, Jeffrey Lewis, Alesia Rollins and Robbie Rollins; nine great-grandchildren; Abby, Josalyn, Tyler, Joshua, Riley, Jenna, Jacey, Chandler and Danielle. He also leaves behind the second love of his life and caretaker Carole Traft. He has many dear friends that the family is so appreciative of on the Island that were always there for him. He had many jobs in his lifetime, Air Force, auto mechanic, power linesman, truck driver, rodeo cowboy and finally the owner of Capital Auto Glass until he retired to enjoy his third love of fishing. He knew a lot of just about everything, and if you don't believe this, you just needed to ask him. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anybody. His memories will be cherished. A celebration of life will be held at the home of his daughter, 7293 Peanut Lane, Mechanicsville, VA 23116 on Sunday, December 10, 2017 from 1 – 4 pm. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or the Mathews, Volunteer Rescue Squad. Faulkner Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, VA is assisting the family with arrangements.

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Lauren Werner

December 3, 2017

Those we love do not go away. They walk beside us each day.
Unheard and unseen but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

My deepest condolences to the entire family and those who loved Jack. We all were blessed to have known him. Jack was the perverbial "good man", generous, helpful, honest, true blue. I admired his devotion to his family - both Smileys & Knights; his loyalty to his friends; his passion for fishing; his willingness to lend a hand or be a teacher; and his wacky sense of humor.

Jack Smiley was an influential character in my life for many years. When Jerry Gordon moved to Gwynn's Island, Jack & Rae were so warm & welcoming to both of us. Quickly, Jack became a reliable, supportive neighbor, mentor and all around bestie to my dear Jerry. Great fishing buddies they were; two peas in a pod! Not only did I include Jack as a close friend, but also, he was my another Diddy.

Smilin' Jack will be sorely missed by many although not forgotten because he was loved and admired by many.

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Funeral Services Provided By

Faulkner Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Foster-Faulkner Chapel

160 Main Street P.O. Box 37, Mathews, VA 23109

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John Edward Smiley

John Edward Smiley