Obituary for Newton James "Jim" Smith
Newton “Jim” Smith, 81, passed away peacefully in his home with family by his side on October 17th, 2022. Jim was a native of Red Oak, Iowa born to the late Hazel and Newton Smith. Jim is preceded in death by his loving wife of 48 years, Darlene Smith, and his loyal canine companion, Saber. He is survived by his children, Tina, Billie Jo, Rodney; five siblings; six grandchildren; and great grandson.
Jim enlisted in the United States Navy before finishing high school and served in the Vietnam War. He retired as a decorated Master Chief after devoting 30 years of service to his country. He earned numerous awards along the way, to include a Meritorious Service Medal. He loved telling stories about his time on the ship and how he and his crew always saved the day when presented with a SNAFU. He stayed close to the water after leaving the Navy and worked for Marine Hydraulics International in Norfolk for 20 years, retiring in 2009.
In his free time, Jim enjoyed camping, golfing, experimenting with LED lights, and drinking Aristocrat vodka. Those who loved him knew not to waste their money on the more expensive stuff. He had a solution to every problem and it didn’t matter how many trips to the hardware store it took- Jim would find a way to fix it.
He also loved landscaping and decorating his yard for every holiday, especially Christmas. The neighbors in Charleston Lakes and beyond all knew his house for his festive seasonal decorations, year after year. Many would stop by the house to thank him in person and he was especially proud when he was featured in the newspaper. In his final days, he directed his grandchildren and their spouses how to properly care for his lawn leaving no blade of grass uncut.
A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, October 22nd, 2022 at 1pm at Graham Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1112 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to view the service if unable to attend and to leave a condolence to the family.
Jim enlisted in the United States Navy before finishing high school and served in the Vietnam War. He retired as a decorated Master Chief after devoting 30 years of service to his country. He earned numerous awards along the way, to include a Meritorious Service Medal. He loved telling stories about his time on the ship and how he and his crew always saved the day when presented with a SNAFU. He stayed close to the water after leaving the Navy and worked for Marine Hydraulics International in Norfolk for 20 years, retiring in 2009.
In his free time, Jim enjoyed camping, golfing, experimenting with LED lights, and drinking Aristocrat vodka. Those who loved him knew not to waste their money on the more expensive stuff. He had a solution to every problem and it didn’t matter how many trips to the hardware store it took- Jim would find a way to fix it.
He also loved landscaping and decorating his yard for every holiday, especially Christmas. The neighbors in Charleston Lakes and beyond all knew his house for his festive seasonal decorations, year after year. Many would stop by the house to thank him in person and he was especially proud when he was featured in the newspaper. In his final days, he directed his grandchildren and their spouses how to properly care for his lawn leaving no blade of grass uncut.
A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, October 22nd, 2022 at 1pm at Graham Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1112 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to view the service if unable to attend and to leave a condolence to the family.