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BORN
1975
DIED
01/19/2026
Michael Smith Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Smith
Greg Masel
February 7, 2026
While I had never met Chaplain Smith, I know of your extraordinary service to our Sailors and Marines. My daughter-in-law called me this morning and told me what happened and what did on that horrific day on December 6, 2019 at the Pensacola NAS. My youngest Marine son was training other Sailors and Marines when word came over the radio about a shooting there. My immediate fear was for my son. Word csme later that he was okay, but several young Sailors and Marines were desd and wounded.
Thank you for ministering to their families and friends during and after that day.
May Almighty God take you in his arms and welcome you home.
From a grateful father.
Doris Rhodes
February 7, 2026
Michael was truly a man of God. I always looked forward to hearing him speak or sing. It was from his heart. My prayers go out to my niece and her family.
Jacquiecl Penny
February 6, 2026
We loved
Brad Converse
February 4, 2026
Chaps helped so many Sailors, Marines, and families through troubled and tough times. I´m thankful to have known him and honored to have served alongside him. Rest easy, my friend.
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Ben Watson
February 4, 2026
Chap Smith helped us through some of the very worst times in our lives. You were a good man and servant of the Lord. You will be missed.
Baron Reinhold, CAPT/USN (ret)
February 4, 2026
Chaps was a GREAT AMERICAN! I got to know him during the days following the tragic passing of CAPT Vince Segars just prior to his change of command as CO of Naval Aviation Schools Command and retiring from the Navy. Mike had the burden of telling Alisa (Vinces´ wife) of the tragic plane crash that took his life. Mike was a tremendous comfort to Alisa and their girls during the days, weeks, and months that followed. I had the privilege of working with Mike to prepare the memorial service and was one of the speakers that had the honor of speaking on Vince's behalf. Chaps was at his best when he was ministering to those experiencing unbearable pain. I travel to Pensacola multiple times a year as a consultant and every time I was in town I would drop in to catch up with Mike. I often say that Navy Chaplains are like a box of chocolates...celebrate the really good ones! Mike was one of the really good ones! One day I look forward to catching up with Mike and Vince but for now I mourn with those that mourn!
Blane Young
February 3, 2026
We are so sorry for your loss, and our prayers are with the family at this difficult moment.
Bernie Vanosdall
February 3, 2026
Pastor Mike ministered to me. God expressed His love through Mike, touching the needs of my heart. Psalm 143:8-10 says:
Psalms 143:8-10 NIV
"[8] Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. [9] Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you. [10] Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground."
Our LORD used Pastor Mike to lead me and many others into the presence of the LORD.
James Myrick
February 2, 2026
Chaplain Smith brought the presence of God when he spoke. It's been a long time since I felt like calling someone "Pastor." He was loved and will be missed by this old sinner.
Elliott "Skip" Main
February 1, 2026
His death was very hard on me. He and I went out to eat several time during the last few months. I counted him a dear brother in the Lord. My wife and I will continue to pray for you all.
Jo Anne Starnes Clevinger
February 1, 2026
My son, Chad, and Mike were really good friends in high school. The last time we saw Mike was in Roanoke after Chad had passed away. Mike was a really good guy and I know he will be missed. Jo Anne Starnes Clevinger
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