Glenn "Smitty" Leslie Smith

Glenn “ Smitty” L. Smith, 94, whose genuine love of people touched many lives, died February 5, 2021, at home. Smitty, as he was known to those who climbed into his barber chair, or knew him through his many civic activities, (Civitan and Mason) was a native Daytonan. A trained barber, he gave many area children their first haircuts and worked into his 90s. As word of his death spread on Facebook, current and former area residents chimed in about Smitty’s role in their lives.

Some posted photos of Smitty giving them their first haircut. To thousands of children, he was a familiar face from coaching Little League or refereeing football. To some of these young men and women, he was a father figure, his easily approachable manner a touchstone for many.

Smitty served as the Daytona Beach Parks and Recreation Director for 25 years and at one time coached the Daytona Beach Junior College baseball team. While working for the city, he earned an associate’s degree from the junior college. He was a member of the first Volusia County Council in 1971 formed under the county charter amendment and also served on the Daytona Beach City Commission.

He was a devoted family man who enjoyed golfing and loved all sports. Survivors include his daughter and caregiver, Ginny Wiley, Port Orange; three grandchildren, Andrea Wiley, Glenn “Trey” Smith III (Mary Wells) and Denise Collins (Mike). Additional survivors are seven great grandchildren – Winter Williams, Amanda Gamache (Fred), Jessica Pryor, Fiona Smith, Glenn Smith IV, Meredith Smith, and Jessie Collins; four great great grandchildren, Madison Pryor, Gabriel and Greysen Gamache, and Everett Villechalane. Nephews and Nieces, Edward “Butch” Simpson (Myriam); Chuck Simpson (Janie); Michelle Smith (Craig); Danielle McCranie (Dan) and C.J. Smith (Pat) along with numerous great nephews and great nieces. He is preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Jean; and two sons and daughters-in-law, Glenn L. Smith Jr. (Sharon) and F. Wayne Smith (Cindy).

All are welcome to attend and celebrate Smitty’s life 2:00 pm on Friday, February 19, 2021, at Volusia Memorial Funeral Home, 548 N. Nova Road, Ormond Beach, FL. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:00 pm–2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Smitty’s name to one of the following organizations, City of Daytona Beach Leisure Service Children’s Fund Attn: John Cameron 386.671.8268 or PortOrangePAL.org.

Services will be live streamed, please visit our website www.volusiamemorialfuneral.com or our Facebook page at Volusia Memorial Park and Funeral Home.