Walter Ellis Smith

Walter Ellis "Sammy" Smith, 84, of 2817 Winfall Road, Rustburg died Monday, September 15, 2025, at his home. He was the husband of Phyllis Johnson Smith. He was born September 16, 1940, in Campbell County, a son of the late Rex Smith and Minnie Morris Smith. He was a member of Calvary Church of Winfall, and he retired from CVTC. In addition to his wife, he is survived by one daughter, Tammy Smith of Rustburg; one son, Keith Smith of Rustburg; one brother, Glenn Smith and his wife, Carol of Lynchburg; two sisters, Daisy Gaynelle Martin and Kathleen Jennings both of Madison Heights; a sister-in-law, Carolyn Smith; and a host of nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by three brothers, Pete, Elwood, and Wayne as well as a sister, Margaret Cash. Walter "Sammy" Smith was a gentle, quiet, kind soul that will always be remembered for his love and joy that his family brought to him. He delighted in spending time with his wife and children as well as with his brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. He loved to talk and laugh with his family. He also delighted in a good joke, especially with his nephews and nieces. He could often be found riding with his son, Keith, to check on the cows, visit job sites, or visit with people in the community. He loved being at home on his farm. He found joy in simple things like being outside cutting grass, working in his garden, and doing other farming chores such as getting up hay. Even as his health waned, he found a way to get on a lawn mower or tractor to work at his home and on the farm. He shared a love of animals with both of his children. He often visited both of their homes to check on a menagerie of pets including cows, calves, cats, kittens, ducks, a special goose, and chickens. He could be found offering treats to them, watching them, and making sure everything was given lots of attention and care. He was also a man of deep faith who loved his church and church community. He found a way to be at church as often as he could. He instilled that faith and love of church in his children and was an inspiration to both his family as well as others. While he was not one to seek out attention, he was always a quiet presence in the church demonstrating what faith looked like being lived out. He was regularly at the church taking care of a chore or task or even leading games at VBS. At home, he made sure that there was a blessing at every meal, and he read his devotional and bible regularly. A graveside service will be conducted at 3:00 pm, Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Mount Zion United Methodist Church Cemetery by the Reverend Mike Miller. The family suggests that those wishing to make memorials consider Calvary Church of Winfall, P.O. Box 588; Rustburg, Virginia 24588 or to a charity of your choice.

Walter Ellis Smith

September 16, 1940 - September 15, 2025