Thomas "Tommy" Ray Smith

Thomas Ray "Tommy" Smith, 68, of Port Republic, passed away on Sunday, September 10, 2023 following a lengthy illness.

He was born on October 10, 1954 and was a son of Charles Thomas Smith and Janie Belle Ettinger Smith.

Tommy graduated from Montevideo High School (class of 1973) and Blue Ridge Community College. He held many jobs during his life span and most recently retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad as and electronics specialist in 2020.

He loved cars, the faster the better. He and his friends spent many afternoons watching NASCAR races. He also enjoyed target shooting, baseball and was a civil war buff, participating in several re-enactments. Tommy has many friends and would spend hours talking with them. During his last two years, he was happiest outside with his fury companion Mary Jane, the cat. They would garden and do outside work while carrying on many conservations solving the world's problems. Tommy will be greatly missed.

Surviving in addition to his father is his cousin, Jason Ettinger, aunt Joyce Ettinger, and numerous friends.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Smith; uncle, Edward Ettinger.

A graveside service celebrating Thomas's life will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Mount Olive Brethren Church Cemetery with Pastor Gail Heiston officiating.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Grottoes.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at johnsonfs.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service in Grottoes.