KILMARNOCK—George Arnold Smith Jr., known as “Mike” to close friends and family, of Kilmarnock, died on July 19, 2026, at the age of 78.
Born in Richmond on August 29, 1947, he attended Ferrum College and served in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1970. He started a family and served as an elder in churches across Virginia.
A talented gardener, he loved playing poker with friends, listening to classic rock, organizing trivia clubs, and beating anyone at pool who dared to face him. Some of his fondest memories were watching his daughters compete as swimmers and playing sand volleyball where he earned his nickname “Mike the Spike.”
He made friends wherever he went. He will be remembered for his humor, wit and playful spirit and his cherished persona as “The Bear” for his grandchildren. Above all else, he loved his Lord and savior Jesus Christ.
George is survived by four daughters and their significant others, Shelley and Jeff Skeete, Rachel and John Ripley, Megan Ihlefeld and John Provo, and Sarah and Morri Creech; as well as 16 grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents, George Arnold Smith Sr. and Iris Smith; and his brother, David Smith.
Currie Funeral Home will be handling arrangements, and a graveside service will take place at noon, Friday, July 31, at the Irvington United Methodist Church, 26 King Carter Drive, Irvington. Memorials may be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project.
