Obituaries – Their Stories Live On

Elder Wilbert Giles Smith passed away on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, after a long illness, and was called to eternal rest by his Heavenly Father.

Wilbert was born on May 5, 1949, in Bassett, VA to Giles and Hazel Johnson Smith. He was one of fourteen siblings and the eldest of seven brothers.

After graduating from George Washington Carver High School in Martinsville, VA, Wilbert joined the US Army and was drafted during the Vietnam War. He was recognized for his exceptional skills as a "Sharp Shooter" and received multiple medals for his bravery and dedication to the United States of America. Wilbert was granted an honorable discharge following his military service. Soon after, he met his beloved wife, Olinda Kaye Robinson, also known as "Blondie," from the hills of West Virginia. They married on May 18, 1973, and their union lasted over 50 years and was blessed with two children, Eric and LaTosha Smith. Wilbert was a devoted husband and father who instilled values of faith, resilience, and kindness in his children and grandchildren. He was a respected man of God and a cherished family member and friend to many. Wilbert worked as a Coal Miner (U.S. Steel) for 30 years and fought battles on the battlefield and beneath the earth's surface. However, his spirit remained unbroken, and he devoted himself to his family and community. He was a selfless provider who worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of his loved ones, embodying the true spirit of dedication. Wilbert's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty, and he left behind a legacy that inspires reverence and admiration.

Elder Smith found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of life. His passion for gardening nurtured vibrant blooms, as well as lasting memories with his family. The tranquility of outdoor life coupled with his pets, particularly breeding German shepherds and the exception of them all, little Miss Roxi, a Yorkie mixed with a terrier, brought him moments of peace, and his laughter echoed through countless gatherings with family and friends.

We celebrate the life of Elder Wilbert Giles Smith, a man who was greatly loved and respected by those who knew him. He had a wonderful personality that combined humor and seriousness and brought joy to everyone around him. At the same time, he commanded respect and authority because of his demeanor. Wilbert was deeply devoted to his wife, loved her more than anything, and always wanted to be near her, even in his final moments. They shared a beautiful bond marked by love, companionship, and dedication. They celebrated every special occasion together with heartfelt gestures and expressions of love. Their children and grandchildren also benefited from Wilbert's unconditional love and support. He was their hero, a source of strength and guidance who shaped their lives with his wisdom and affection. Wilbert's legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us, his memory will live on forever in the hearts of those he touched.

Wilbert's faith in God never faltered throughout his life. He was spiritually nurtured at the Glorious Church of God in Christ, where his Father-In-Law, Bishop Felix Robinson, served as the leader. Later, he became a member of Living Waters Outreach Ministries, led by Pastor, Overseer Yvonne Y. Law, where he answered his call to the ministry and became an ordained Elder in his church. His profound compassion and wisdom touched many lives, and his dedication to his spiritual community was a testament to his unwavering belief in the power of God's love and grace.

Aside from his father and mother, Giles and Hazel Johnson Smith, he was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Oscar and Mattie Johnson and paternal grandparents Leonard and Eula Smith.

Elder Wilbert Giles Smith leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 50 plus years, Olinda “Blondie” Robinson Smith; two children, Eric Smith of Beckley, WV and Latosha Smith of Snellville, GA; five grandchildren, Erika Smith of Atlanta, GA, Karrington Smith and Kennadi Smith of Beckley, WV, Calab Johnson of Snellville, GA, and Gai’Brielle Smith of Port Gibson, MS; two great-grandchildren, Kenleigh Grant and Koa Thompson of Beckley, WV; thirteen siblings in birth order, Brenda Fitzgerald of Martinsville, VA, Annie Loper of Rocky Mount, VA, Sarah (Fred) Martin of Bassett, VA, Garry (Joyce) Smith of Garner, NC, Dwight “Cool” Smith of Bassett, VA, Elmer (Doris) Smith Sydnersville, VA, Kenneth (Ruth) Smith of Cascade, VA, Eunice Carter of Saulsbury, NC, Ray (Fannie) Smith of Axton, VA, Kay Page of High Point, NC, Fran Preston of Fieldale, VA, Lisa Smith of Bassett, VA, and Fred Smith of Bassett, VA, along with a plethora nieces, nephews and close family members, and friends.

Elder Wilbert Giles Smith will be remembered for his enduring love, unwavering faith, and selfless service to his family, country, and community. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and learned from him.

Funeral service will be 12:00PM Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at Heart of God Ministries 1703 S. Kanawha St. Beckley. Burial will follow in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Prosperity.

Friends, while wearing masks and observing social distancing, may visit with the family one-hour prior.

Email condolences to ritchiejohnsonfuneralparlor@gmail.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Ritchie & Johnson Funeral Parlor, Beckley.