Varnell Smith

February 2, 1939 – September 8, 2015

Mr. Varnell Smith passed away peacefully in his sleep Tuesday, September 8, 2015 after an extended illness.  He was 76.

Memorial Services will be held at the Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Dothan, AL at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 11, 2015.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that you honor Mr. Smith’s memory with your donation to The House of Ruth, PO Box 968, Dothan, AL 36302. 

Mr. Smith was born February 2, 1939, in Enterprise, AL and lived in various areas during his lifetime.  He attended Enterprise High School until his Junior year, then graduated from Baker High School in Columbus, GA.   He enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country for four years.  Upon leaving the military he worked for Lockheed Martin, before accepting a position with I.B.M. where he was employed over 25 years.  After his retirement in 1991, he moved his family back to the Dothan area. During his lifetime he enjoyed volunteer work.  He volunteered for Cedar Run Rescue Squad in Virginia, he read for the blind in Lakeland, Florida and he was a loyal Republican.  Mr. Smith also was an avid fisherman and animal lover, always having a dog by his side.

He was preceded in death by his parents,  William Jesse Smith and Exie Elizabeth Smith;  siblings: Baby Girl Smith, Leon Smith and Myrtice Brown.

Survivors include his wife Jeannine Smith and two daughters: Tina Marie Smith and Tisha Ann Bidak; seven grandchildren:  Ronald Varnell Tobias, Michael C. Bidak, Joshua S. Bidak, Brandy N. Tobias, Mathew Varnell Bidak, Janelle L. J. Bidak and Joseph F. Boutwell;  niece, Diane Smith; two nephews: Terry Smith and Ronny Smith; other extended family and friends.