Sterling Joseph Smith

For His anger is but for a moment, but His favor is for a lifetime or in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5 Sterling Joseph Smith was born October 13, 1947 to the late George and Elizabeth “Lizzie” Smith in LaCrosse, Virginia. At the age of 65, he passed away quietly Tuesday, February 19, 2013. He is preceded in death by his brother William Smith and sister Peggy Smith. Sterling received his formal education at East End High School in South Hill, Virginia. He furthered his education at John Tyler Community College in Chesterfield, Virginia. Sterling accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age at First Baptist Church. He was united in holy matrimony with Alfreida Talley on December 24, 1972 in Richmond, Virginia and was blessed with one child. He enlisted into the United States Army on February 13, 1968 and received an honorable discharge, February 12, 1970. Sterling received many commendations while serving his tour of duty which were a Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, a Commendation Medal Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Expert M-14 with Bar, two Overseas Bars and a National Defense Service Medal. He was formerly employed at the Defense General Supply Center as a Security Patrol Officer and retired after 30 years of dedicated service. In his leisure, he enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys and old western movies. He loved the fact that he was retired and could relax and do his thing. Sterling touched everyone in a unique kind of way. If you met him you would remember his special spirit. A life touched by God, always ends in touching others. He leaves to cherish his memory, a loving and devoted wife, Alfreida Smith; caring daughter, Stephanie Smith-Gallop (George); grandson, Karl; two brothers, Herbert Smith and Clinton Smith (Mae); two sisters, Delores Smith and Hattie Smith; six sisters-in-law, Denise Calloway, Helen Green, Rosa Jones, Mattie Hendrick, Clementine Jiggetts and Margaret Winston; two brothers-in-law, William and Jerry Talley one devoted nephew, Nelson Smith of Tappahannock, VA and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

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Sterling Joseph Smith

October 13, 1947 - February 19, 2013