Greg graduated from Amherst County High School and then served his country as a United States Marine in the Vietnam War from 1967-1969. After his military service, he furthered his education through the support of the G.I. Bill, first attending Central Virginia Community College, then Washington and Lee University, then the Washington and Lee University School of Law, from which he graduated in 1976. He started his law practice in Madison Heights in 1976 in partnership with Stark Mundy and Ed Meeks who was his former partner and great friend. In 1978, he ran for Virginia House of Delegates against Vance Wilkins and Virgil Coleman.
Greg began his solo law practice in 1979, and it thrived until his retirement earlier this year. He loved the law and was a highly skilled advocate for his clients. He knew the Virginia Code inside and out. He loved sparring with local judges and attorneys. He wore the persona of a country lawyer, hoping his opponent might underestimate him. He never backed down from a challenge; he was a “working man’s lawyer” and a huge presence, both in the courtroom and outside of it. Through his law practice, Greg became an integral part of the Amherst community, and he never met a stranger. He was most often described, usually fondly, as “one of a kind.”
Greg is survived by his aunt, Phyllis Stein (Tony) and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Vicki; his daughter, Julie Smith Palmer (Jeff); his son, Douglas Ryan Smith; his grandchildren, Lila, Adrienne, and Blake, who were the light of his life; his favorite sister, Vicki Smith Aldrich (Bill); his special brother/best friend, Charles Edward Smith (Michelle), and his brothers Joe Smith and Mike Smith.
Greg’s family is grateful for the outpouring of loving kindness and support from the members of the Amherst community, who are too numerous to name. The family wishes specially to thank John Hall for his love and assistance in recent months and Centra Hospice for their compassion, support and professionalism, which was immeasurable.
The family will receive visitors at Whitten Monelison Chapel on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make a donation in Greg’s name to your favorite charity or to some of ours: Centra Hospice, Wounded Warriors, Elon Baptist Church, or your local humane society.
