Garner Smith

Garner Emerson Smith, 83, of McDowell, passed away Monday, September 4, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born November 30, 1933, in Montgomery County, Maryland, the youngest child of the late Audrey Stella (Getz) and Kirby Franklin Smith.

On September 24, 1956 he married Norma “Jean” Hayward and together they had a daughter, Carole Jean Smith of Raleigh, N.C. and McDowell.

A U.S. Army veteran, Mr. Smith retired March 31, 1979 after 20 years of service as a Corporal and K9 Unit Officer with the Montgomery County Maryland Police Department. In 1982, following his retirement, he and his wife moved to McDowell and started Smith’s Small Engine Repair. He enjoyed playing poker, hunting and fishing.

He was a member of McDowell Presbyterian Church, Highland Masonic Lodge #110, Montgomery County Maryland Police Association, Montgomery County Maryland Police Alumni Association and a former member of the Stonewall Ruritan Club.

Mr. Smith was the last immediate member of his family having been predeceased by three brothers, Ralph, Kirby and William Smith; and three sisters, Pauline Smith, Jean Oden and Mabel Richard.

A memorial service will be held at McDowell Presbyterian Church, 11 a.m., Monday, September 11, 2017, with the Rev. Beth Pyles officiating. A private inurnment will be in the McDowell Presbyterian Cemetery at a later date. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to McDowell Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 66, McDowell, Va. 24458.