Gloria Jean Smith, 74, of Christiansburg, passed away Thursday, March 4, 2021.
She was preceded in death by her father, Charles T. McDaniel; and her sisters, Brenda Sue Croy and Clydia McDaniel.
She was a selfless, loving and dedicated daughter, wife, mother and friend who found joy in helping others. She grew up in Radford and graduated in 1964 from Radford High School. She married her high school sweetheart and lifelong partner, Dale, in December 1966. She was a nurse’s aide at the Radford Hospital until 1972 when she left to raise her children.
In 1998, Jean, Dale and their son, Kris, started a homebuilding business where she managed their office and worked with the employees, suppliers and subcontractors. She was the heart and soul of the company for 19 years until her health forced her retirement. Jean leaves the company in the hands of her husband, son and daughter and will be missed by those she worked with.
Her ultimate passion was her family. She and Dale had an inseparable bond that not many people are fortunate enough to have. She took pride in being his wife and loving and supporting him. She was an amazing mother and grandmother. Her eyes lit up watching the kids run around her farmhouse, play sports and laugh together.
Survivors include her husband, Arthur Dale Smith; a daughter, Leslie Smith Herrington, a son, Kris and his wife, Jodi Smith; her mother, Ruby Phillips McDaniel; grandchildren Colin, Gavin, Reagan and Brady, Alexa Smith Askew and her husband, Trevor; and great-granddaughters Aaliyah and Naomi; a brother, Junior McDaniel; a sister, Connie Scott; and many other special relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held on Friday, March 12, 2021, at the Mullins Funeral Home with Pastor Shake Smith officiating. Interment will followed in West View Cemetery in Radford.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be given to The Joy Ranch Home for Children, 813 Joy Ranch Road, Woodlawn, VA 24381.
The Smith family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory in Radford.
