Join

Charles Donald Smith

Charles Donald Smith, who went by Don to family and friends, passed away on January 20,
2020. He was 87 years old.

Don passed in the presence of his loving and devoted wife of 65 years, Thelma Fay Wright Smith. Their happy marriage resulted in a family of four daughters—Vivian Hetrick, Cynthia Smith, Susan Wilkinson, and Barbara Cirelli—who all now greatly miss his abiding and steadfast love. He is also survived by 4 sons-in-law, 9 grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren.

Don Smith lived the quintessential American Dream. Born and raised in Rostraver, PA, just south of Pittsburgh, he was the third of three sons to first-generation German immigrants. He worked in the steel mills to put himself through college at California University of Pennsylvania, and then served in the U.S. Army in post-WWII Germany. He and his young bride lived off the American base, and it was during their time in Germany that Don and Thelma began their family. They returned to the United States with baby Vivian.

He began his post-Army career at Westinghouse and eventually joined the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where he led a long, distinguished career as a civilian executive in Fort Belvoir,
VA, and Washington, DC. He attended the Industrial College of the Armed Forces and simultaneously earned a masters degree at Central Michigan University. He joined the ranks of the Senior Executive Service and earned the Meritorious Civilian Service Award.

Don and Thelma raised their family in Woodbridge, VA, from 1965 until a recent move to Lansdowne, VA, in 2019. He deeply loved his ever-expanding family, and for many years he and Thelma took all of their daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren on epic vacations. The grandchildren enjoyed many tropical adventures together on numerous cruises.

One of Don’s greatest joys and skills was his uncanny ability to fix just about anything. He could figure out any problem with cars, appliances, and small motors of any kind and was generous in sharing his talents. In retirement he spent many happy hours in his garage fixing and refurbishing lawn mowers for family, friends, and neighbors. To many residents of Woodbridge, he will always be fondly remembered as “the Lawnmower Man.” The family will welcome guests to a visitation, remembrance service, and reception in Dale City, VA, this Sunday:

Mountcastle Turch Funeral Home
4143 Dale Boulevard
Dale City, VA 22193
703.680.1234
Sunday, January 26, 2020
Visitation, noon–1:30; service at 1:30; reception to follow the service.

Author

Recent Stories

On November 27 at 8:50PM, officers responded to 13500 block of Delaney Road in [Dale City] to investigate a domestic dispute.

We all want to reside in a community that is fun, safe, and, at it’s core – clean. However, it’s easier said than done. Maintaining an inviting, enjoyable space has it’s challenges, from monetary expenses to valuable time and effort.

The Pence Group is getting closer to breaking ground on its long-awaited 45-acre mixed-use development on Garrisonville Road in North Stafford.

I-66 Express donates $10K to NVFS Hunger Center, aiding 400+ families this holiday season.

Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.

What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?

This is the Wine Event Of The Year!

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.

We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.

Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Sing a Song of Christmas!!!

Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise

×

Subscribe to our mailing list