John Walter Smith

John Walter Smith, 72, a resident of Rockingham, passed away on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at his home.

Mr. Smith was born on February 7, 1951 and was a son of the late Charles Berlin and Catherine Frances Cootes Smith. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. John retired from Nielsen Construction after over 40 years of dedication. He was a man of many talents that included playing guitar, banjo, restoring cars, and was mechanically inclined, often fixing cars for family and friends. He loved bluegrass music, fishing at Lake Anna and spending time with his family, especially his adored granddaughter. He was an excellent provider for his wife and children, and a loyal friend.

On March 5, 1975, he married Erma Dawn Stickler Smith who survives.

Also surviving are two children, Lisa Miller and husband Jeff of Mt. Solon, Donnie Smith and wife April of Rockingham; granddaughter, Kesalyn Smith; and siblings, Harold Smith and wife Sharon of Rockingham, Mary "Peg' Minnick of Broadway, Fran Derrow of Keezletown.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his siblings, Charles "Bud" Smith, Donnie Smith, Betty Thomas; and his brothers-in-law, Charles Minnick and Warren Derrow.

Reverend John Neff will conduct a funeral service on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 11 a.m. at the McMullen Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery with military rites by the Dayton American Legion Post 27.

The family will receive friends on Monday from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the funeral home. At his request, the casket will remain closed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sentara Hospice, 2010 Health Campus Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.