Avery Keesee Smith

Avery Keesee Smith of South Boston passed away on March 9, 2025 at the blessed age of 93. She was born in Halifax County, VA on April 7, 1931 to the late Harper Keesee and the late Rossie Snead Keesee. She was married for sixty years to the late Richard C. “Dick” Smith.

Avery grew up in the Republican Grove community of Halifax County. She graduated from Volens High School and then business school in Danville, VA. She worked for Burlington Industries and retired from VEPCO.

Avery loved her family dearly and delighted in spending time with them. She had a sharp wit and a wonderful sense of humor, which no doubt helped her survive being “outnumbered” in a house full of boys. She was a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother, spending time with her grandchildren whenever possible.

Avery was a devoted Christian and a long-time member of First Baptist Church of South Boston, where she taught children’s Sunday School and was a faithful member of the Fidelis Sunday School Class. She loved playing Bridge, gardening, and volunteering at the museum. Her warm smile and ever-sweet disposition will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sons Dwight Smith (Janet) of Woodbridge, VA, David Smith of Carlsbad, CA, and Darden Smith (Sue) of South Boston; grandchildren Kathleen Smith-Mercado (Thomas) of Carlsbad, CA, Spencer Smith of Carlsbad, CA, Hampton Smith (Abby) of Alton, VA, Roger Smith of South Boston, VA, and Richard Riehl (Destiny) of Richmond, VA; three great-grandchildren, Harper, Vienna, and Briar.

She was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Renee Younger.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church in South Boston, with the Rev. Bill Boelte officiating. The burial to follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery following the service. The visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

For memorials, please consider First Baptist Church Youth and Children’s Fund, 815 North Main Street, South Boston, VA 24592.

Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA 24592.