Served during World War II in the U. S. Army Virgil Ethmer Smith was born Aug. 7, 192l in Almartha, Mo., and departed this life Jan. 16, 2008, at the age of 86 years 5 months and 9 days.
Virgil was the son of Lester E. Smith and Essie Mae (Daniels) Smith. Virgil was a life long resident of the area.
Virgil was a farmer in the turkey business and later in beef. In 1990 Virgil moved to Ava, moving from Wasola, MO. Virgil served his country during World War II with the U. S. Army as a mechanic. He was member of the VFW.
Virgil was a member of the First General Baptist Church in Ava. He served as a deacon for many years at the Oak Grove General Baptist Church. Virgil believed being involved in church was very important. He also was a lifetime member of the VFW and American Legion, and a Mason of the Grand Lodge #496, Gainesville Chapter.
Virgil enjoyed fishing with Velma and being with his family.
On May 10, 1947, Virgil and Faye Conrad were united in marriage in Wasola. Virgil and Fay were blessed with a daughter. In 1988 Faye preceded him in death.
On Sept. 6, 1990, Virgil and Velma (Phillips) Trivitt were united in marriage in Wasola.
Virgil was also preceded in death by his parents and one step-son, Ray Trivitt.
He is survived by his wife, Velma, of the home, Ava, daughter, Sandra Davis and husband, Boyd, and one stepson, Dean Trivitt and wife, Sandra, all of Ava; seven step-grandchildren, Whitney, Gary, Sheila, Stephen, Angela, Ray Jr., and Valerie; 16 step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Agnes Dell Davis, Ridgecrest, Calif.; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Ava, with the Rev. Robert Roberts officiating. Interment followed in the Oak Grove Cemetery with military honors by the American Legion Post 112 and VFW Post 5993. Visitation was Saturday from 1 p.m. until service time. The family requests memorials to Gideons International. Online condolences may be made to www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome. com.
