Raymond Lawrence Smith - Cremation Society of Virginia

Raymond Lawrence Smith

Date of Death: October 18, 2024

Portlock United Methodist Church

2615 Bainbridge Blvd.

Chesapeake, Virginia 23324

757-543-2627 |

Friday 11/22, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Raymond L. Smith

September 24, 1945 – October 18, 2024

Raymond L. Smith, lovingly known as “Smitty” during his years at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2024, at the age of 79. A lifelong resident of Portsmouth, VA, Raymond was a man of quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Born on September 24, 1945, Raymond served his country honorably in the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne during the Vietnam War. He later channeled his skill and precision into a long career as an electrician, beginning his work before joining the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he served in Shop 51 for over three decades. Affectionately known as “Smitty” to those at the shipyard, he was respected for both his expertise and his genuine, down-to-earth nature. Even after retiring in January 2006, he continued working as a residential electrician, often side by side with his sons, Ryan and Randy, whose lives he influenced greatly. Raymond’s legacy as a skilled tradesman and a man of integrity lives on in the people he served and the many friendships he formed along the way.

Raymond was the devoted husband of the late Regina B. Smith, who passed away in 2014, and a proud father of his three children: Tammy Smith, Randy Smith, and Ryan Smith. While Tammy and her children—Michael, Erica, and Brittany—were not present in much of his life, Raymond thought of them often, keeping them close in his heart. His son Randy and his wife Kelly, along with their two sons, Evan and Jackson, were an important part of Raymond’s life. He shared a particularly close bond with his son Ryan, who was not only his steadfast companion in fishing and cornhole but also a source of support and joy throughout his retirement years.

Throughout his life, Raymond held a special fondness for his pets, whose companionship brought him joy and comfort. Family was always at the center of his world; he took great pride in supporting his sons and sharing both life lessons and light-hearted moments with them.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes H. Smith and Everett L. Smith, and his siblings, Betty, Emily, and Paul. As the last of his immediate family, he leaves behind a legacy filled with warmth, hard work, and quiet love.

A private memorial service for immediate family and close friends will be held on Friday, November 22, at 2 p.m. at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA. Following this intimate ceremony, all friends and family are warmly invited to join a larger, more casual gathering to celebrate Raymond’s life from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Portlock United Methodist Church, located at 2615 Bainbridge Blvd, Chesapeake, VA. This will be a time for sharing memories and supporting one another as we honor Raymond together.

Friends and family are invited to remember Raymond by reflecting on the kindness he shared and the friendships he built. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy endures in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Cremation Society of Virginia

Paula Smith Hall

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Portlock United Methodist Church

2615 Bainbridge Blvd.

Chesapeake, Virginia 23324

757-543-2627 | Map

Friday 11/22, 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

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Raymond L. Smith September 24, 1945 – October 18, 2024 Raymond L. Smith, lovingly known as “Smitty” during his years at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2024, at the age of 79. A lifelong resident of Portsmouth, VA, Raymond was a man of quiet strength, kindness, and unwavering dedication to…

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Sending you all love & prayers for the loss of Uncle Raymond. ❤️Paula

So sorry for the loss of Uncle Raymond. Debbie & I have been thinking of you all & sending you prayers of peace during these difficult times. Cherish the memories.❤️

Love you grandpa, take your well deserved rest.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.