Mr. Al L. Smith, of Southampton County (Capron), Virginia, transitioned from earth to glory on August 19, 2021. He was born to the late Robert Smith and Addie Grant Smith, on February 7, 1931 in Capron, Virginia. Al was one of the ten children born to his parents.
He attended Southampton County Public Schools and graduated from Southampton County Training School. Upon graduation, Al enrolled in Little State in Norfolk, Virginia. He joined the Army in 1951 and served for two years. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Bishop College in Texas. Al taught and drove the school bus in the School District of Texas for a few years. He returned to Portsmouth,Virginia. Al was the first Black new car salesman for Mason Haynes Buick in Portsmouth. After a few years in car sales, he started pursued his passion and start teaching for the Portsmouth Public Schools. He taught or served as a Guidance Counselor at the following schools: S.H.Clark Junior High, I. C. Norcom High, Churchland High, Manor High and Waters Middle School.
Al retired as a Guidance Counselor of Waters Middle School in 1997.
Al became a member of Noble Street Baptist Church, Portsmouth in May of 1979. He was a faithful trustee and an usher at Noble Street before his health declined. Al was very sociable and a kind man.
Al leaves to cherish his memories, wife for 54 years, Charlotte, a daughter, Vickie Berry (Victor), a son, Rickey Smith (Jackie), three grandsons, a special niece, Ann Speller, two Goddaughters, Sabrina Hall and Christi Williams, a Godson, Tyren Johnson, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Condolences(6)-
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Donna C. Darden says
August 27, 2021 at 2:25 pmMy sincere condolences to the Smith family. I first met Mr. Smith when I was a student at W. E. Waters Junior High School and later had a chance to work with him at I. C. Norcom High School. He was a caring counselor and co-worker.
Leigh M. Burton, Sr. says
August 27, 2021 at 2:58 pmMay the Family fid comfort in knowing That Mr. Smith is no resting in the Arms of His Heavenly Father. No more Dr. Visits or pain. He has fought a good fight and kept the faith. I remember Him from My Jr. High School days at S. H. Clarke. Even Years later He know who I was. He as always the same whenever I saw Him. Family continue to look to Jesus for strength during Your time of loss.
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W Anthony Ratcliffe says
August 28, 2021 at 3:19 pmI had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Smith when I entered the halls of the great I.C.Norcom High School. He was always such a joy, and would impart wisdom on you. The wisdom that young Afro American Men needed to hear!! May GOD continue to BLESS, and keep his family/loved ones. For we do know ” That To Be Absent In The Body Is To Be Present With The Lord”
Shaneka says
August 28, 2021 at 6:50 pmRest easy a brilliant peaceful soul. You definitely will be missed by many greyhounds 💕💕
John D Ballard says
August 29, 2021 at 9:27 pmAunt Charlotte, We are so very sorrow for your lost. We know this can be a very difficult time. We pray you will find comfort that Uncle Al’s soul is a peace with our Lord. John D and Mollie Ballard
Ray and Marion Smith says
August 30, 2021 at 1:33 pmCondolences and prayers for the Smith family! While in the 10th grade at I.C. Norcom I met Al Smith. He was a guidance counselor. He arrived at Noble St. Bapt. and we continued to work together.
He was one of kind type of guy. Very smart and intelligent, eager to get involved when necessary. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to be there. He lived a long full life. Rest In Peace Al, as I was given permission to call him. Take your rest!!