Marion Dodd Chambliss, 91, of Smithfield, passed away Nov. 30, 2020. The son of the late Eddie Lee Chambliss and Myra Dodd Chambliss, he was born and raised in Triplet, in Brunswick County.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Christine Delbridge Chambliss, whom he met at the age of 9. They were born five days apart and married for 64 years. He is survived by his daughter, Joan Chambliss Mann; son, Steven Dodd Chambliss (Becky); grandchildren, Allison Chambliss Heath (John), Kelsey Chambliss Sykes (Greg) and Jeffrey Hays Chambliss.

Marion started working at the age of 16 for Leggett Department Store in Lawrenceville, later moving to Weldon, N.C., and then Culpeper. In 1959, he and Christine relocated to Smithfield, where he became manager of George W. Delk Department Store on Main Street. They purchased Delk’s in 1983 and worked until 2001, when the store closed and he retired.

Marion served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, stationed in Colorado and Alaska.

He was a Rotarian for all of his adult life and was made an Honorary Rotary member of the Smithfield Rotary Club once he was no longer able to attend meetings. He loved Smithfield and all of his store patrons, people in the community and neighborhood friends. He loved fishing, gardening and playing cards, especially with his best friend, Dudley.

Many thanks to all his wonderful neighbors who looked out for him every day, especially Larry and Neil. Also, many thanks to his loving caregivers who made it possible for him to stay at home these last few years: Desiree, Billie, Mary, Tanya & Tammy.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Dec. 7 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Smithfield. A graveside service will also be held at 1 p.m., Dec. 9 at Philadelphia United Methodist Church in Lawrenceville, with burial to follow.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Smithfield Rotary Club, PO Box 1004, Smithfield, VA 23430. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.