KILMARNOCK—Marshall Riess Smith, born June 15, 1987, passed away on November 14, 2025, at the age of 38 after a long battle with heart failure.
A lifelong resident of Kilmarnock, Marshall was deeply rooted in the community where he was born, raised and lived his entire life. He graduated from Lancaster High School in 2006 and attended Rappahannock Community College.
He is preceded in death by his loving grandmother, Margaret Riess Bowles; and his beautiful mother, Marilyn Bowles Smith; whose loss during Marshall’s childhood shaped so much of who he became. He is also preceded by his maternal grandfather, Milton Bowles; his paternal grandparents, Easter Deihl Smith and Orrie Lee Smith Sr.; and his aunts, Mary Margaret Bowles and Melinda R. Bowles.
Marshall is survived by his devoted father, Dr. Curtis H. Smith; his siblings, Miles C. Smith and Madison R. Smith; his aunt, Betsy Bowles Brown; his uncle, Orrie Lee Smith Jr.; and cousins, Lori Smith Pettit and Chris Smith, who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Marshall was a man of imagination and creativity. A passionate admirer of fantasy and storytelling, he built a meaningful career as a photographer and cosplay artist, bringing characters to life with skill, dedication and heart. His presence and humor enriched the lives of his friends in the cosplay community with whom he shared his joy of the fantastical.
Marshall will be laid to rest at Roseland Cemetery in Reedville at a future date in a private ceremony, where he will be buried across from his mother, whose memory remained a guiding light throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Marshall’s honor to the Kilmarnock Volunteer Rescue Squad.
