On Sunday, July 21, 2024, while surrounded by his loving family, Gene Edward Smith was called home to be with his Heavenly Father at Riverside Regional Medical Center, after a brief illness.
Gene, or “Jersey” as friends and family knew him, was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, on March 11, 1952. He was the only son of the late Annie and Edward Gene Smith.
Gene attended Thomas Jefferson High School where he enjoyed competing and playing various sports, including football, basketball, swimming, and tennis. He also sang in the glee club and played the accordion. After high school, Gene attended Norfolk State University, where he was a founding member of the Casino Social Club. After graduating from Norfolk State University in 1976, Gene enjoyed a 32-year career at Anheuser-Busch. Upon retirement, Gene enjoyed traveling, visiting family and friends, watching movies and sports.
Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Jean Smith. He is survived by two sisters, Carla Moye and Bernice Hall (Curby); one son, Jamil Smith (Tiffany); two stepdaughters, Felicia and Katrina; his significant other and longtime friend, Ruby West; and a host of step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, and caring friends.
A service to celebrate his life will be held at noon on Friday, August 2, 2024, at Rising Sun Baptist Church. Mr. Smith may be viewed on Friday beginning at 11 a.m. until the hour of his service in the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to their favorite charity in honor of Gene Smith.
