Vernon Joseph Smith, 93, of Talladega, passed away Friday, April 11, 2025, at his residence.

Mr. Smith was born in Blue Creek, Alabama, on September 18, 1931, the son of the late Vernon Virgil and Glennie Mae Smith. He graduated from Hueytown High School and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, stationed in Germany. He worked for U.S. Steel for 48 years.

A true outdoorsman, he was an avid hunter and fisherman throughout his life. He had many hobbies over the years including beekeeping and antique collecting, and he especially cherished his vast marble collection, which reminded him of his boyhood days playing at school.

He married Shirley Woodall Smith in June of 1955, and they shared a loving marriage until her passing on November 21, 2002. Together, they faced the heartbreaking loss of an infant son in 1964. Mr. Smith was also preceded in death by two sisters, Emma Lucille Smith Yancey (Willard Yancey) and Mary Annette Smith Johnson; his parents; and a granddaughter, Stephanie Lynn Grimmett Davis.

He is survived by his daughter, Lee Ann Smith (Ron) Grimmett; grandson, Eric (Kristi) Mullins; great-grandchildren, Bear Mullins, Smith Mullins, Cannon Mullins, Ella Kate Mullins, and Joseph Davis; his brother, John William Smith; and a host of nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind a legacy that will be carried on for generations.

Visitation will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 p.m.
Eric Mullins will officiate the service.
Interment will follow at Valhalla Cemetery.

The family extends special thanks to Polly Spires and Leslie Rogers for their dedicated care and support.