Celia Miller Smith

Celia Miller Smith

Ritchie Smith peacefully passed away at home in McLean, VA, on March 2, 2018. Celia Smith peacefully passed away at home in McLean, VA, on June 9, 2018. Celia and Ritchie were happily married for over 71 years. During their marriage, they raised five children and enjoyed five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Ritchie left college to enlist in the Navy during WWII. He served on the USS Melvin, a naval destroyer in the Pacific, until the end of the war. He greatly enjoyed his many reunions with his fellow sailors on the Melvin. He also loved the reunions with his high school friends in Morgantown, WVA. Once back from the war, he moved to Lakeland, FL, with his family and met Celia Miller. They were married June 5, 1946, and were devoted to each other for the next 72 years.

Ritchie completed school and entered dental school in Detroit, MI. After his graduation, the family settled in Albany, Georgia. In 1957, "they" rejoined the Navy as a dentist and while serving, moved up and down the East Coast for twenty years. Celia was a dedicated wife throughout Ritchie’s military career and was his unwavering support system during this time. In 1967, Ritchie and Celia settled in McLean, VA. They both served in their church, volunteering and helping people in need throughout their lives. They enjoyed many friendships with other military couples and people in their church.

Ritchie taught at Georgetown University dental school until his retirement in 1990. Celia created many beautiful pieces of handwork, including needlework, knitting and quilting. Both of them were devoted to their youngest daughter, Celia (Cede), who is mentally and physically challenged.

Services will be held at the Fort Myer Old Post Chapel on Tuesday, October 16, 2018. Burial following at Arlington National Cemetery with a reception following at Fort Myer Patton Hall. Funeral arrangements through Murphy Funeral Home in Arlington, VA.