Mr. Vernell Smith

At the age of 57, on June 21, 2023, Vernell went home to be with his Lord and Savior. He was born in Memphis, TN, to Ernest Smith and the late Betty Davenport. Following his mother’s passing, Vernell’s grandmother, Ruth Davenport (deceased), continued to help raise him and his twin, Verdell. It was his honor to return the favor in her declining years. Vernell’s steadfast commitment to family, friends, and this country, along with having the heart of a servant, denotes the legacy he left behind. He joined the United States Navy at the age of eighteen and proudly served his country for over 20 years. He retired as a Petty Officer First Class (SH1). He was a long-time tither and active member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church where he served as a member of the outside security team. Vernell was proud to join the United States Navy and serve his country where he supervised many men and women and established life-long relationships. Vernell was also a passionate Dallas Cowboys fan as evidenced today! In addition to his mother and grandparents, he was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn Smith of nineteen years and sister Latoya Green. Left behind to cherish his many memories are his father, Ernest Smith (Marie Schluter Smith); sisters, Vernita Johnson, Dr. Kimberly Smith Waller (Mr. Nikita Waller), April Schluter, and Asa Smith; brothers, his twin, Verdell Smith, Charlie Sims, Ernest Matthew Smith (Claudia Smith), and Joel Schluter; step-children, Dammion Thompson, Jessica Ferguson (Eric Ferguson), and Tobias Cole; step-grandchildren, Tobias Cole, Jr., Trent Cole, Tabitha Cole, Regina Thompson, Chris Ferguson, and Jaiden Ferguson; a host of aunts, uncles, other family members, shipmates, and friends. The family invites you to visit on Friday, June 30, 2023 from 10-11 a.m., as Vernell lies in state at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, 1057 Kennedy Street, Norfolk. A funeral service to celebrate his life will follow the visitation and begin at 11 a.m. with Reverend Shelton Murphy officiating. Vernell will be laid to rest beside his loving wife at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens following the service and repast. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to https://www.dav.org/ (Disabled American Veterans). **The Smith family asks that you not take pictures of the decedent as he lies in state.