Charles “Chuck” Wesley Smith Jr., 73, is now fishing in perpetuity after years struggling with heart and lung disease.

Born and raised in Newport News to Charles and Lela, Chuck developed a keen sense of humor and a strong sense of dedication and loyalty. He served in the Army during the Vietnam era, and then followed a family tradition of working in the Newport News Shipyard. Chuck was hired by the Virginia ABC Board, where his excellent work ethic earned him advancement to manager. Chuck and his bride, Virginia “Gigi” Finney Smith married young and had one son, Christopher “Chris” James Smith, whom he cherished and passed on his love of fishing to. This great passion and joy was ONLY surpassed by the birth of his beloved granddaughters, Lela Grace and Olivia Hope. While Chuck wasn’t so keen on kids, these two girls were unquestionably the apple of his eye.

The friends that this amazing man did not take on his final fishing trip are too vast to list but all are undoubtedly picturing him smiling, turning off the cell phone and hearing aids and pointing his boat toward the sweet spot, in his quest of the “biggest catch of all.”

In lieu of gifts of remembrance, the family asks that you consider registering as an organ donor so that others may receive the gift of renewed life. The amazing lady who was by his side for more than 50 years will now get a dog. A memorial service will be held at 5:30 p.m. Monday, March 29, 2021, at Little’s Funeral Home, Smithfield. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.