Wilson Smith

Wilson Smith was born on October 9, 1928, to Georgia B. Smith and Wilson Smith Sr. in Warrenton, NC. Wilson was the youngest of three children and the only son. He was the eldest grandson of Georgia Bell Harris and Robert Harris of Warrenton, NC. He departed this life on October 29, 2025, in Collingswood Rehabilitation Center, Rockville, MD.

Wilson was educated in the Warren County School System. He graduated from John R. Hawkins High School in 1947, where he excelled in basketball. While in school, he met freshman Dorothy Manson.

In 1951, Wilson was drafted in the US Army and stationed in Washington State. Wilson was afraid to fly so he rode the train from NC to Washington State to report for duty. He served from 1951-1953, during the Korean War.

Wilson accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age. He was christened at the "Colored Methodist Church" Oak Chapel AME Church, Warrenton, NC. Upon moving to Washington, D.C., he and his young family became members of John Stewart United Methodist Church/Lincoln Park United Methodist Church. This is where he remained active serving in several capacities until illness prevented him from attending. Wilson served: on the Pastor Parish Relations Committee, as a Trustee, on the Usher Board, member of the Methodist Men, active with the Seasoned Saints, and on the Prayer Line. Wilson was the last surviving member of the "3 Dudes" (Harvey T Moore, Jim Brown, and Wilson Smith. IYKYK.

Wilson retired from Hertz Rent-A-Car after more than 25 years of service. He also served as President of J.R. Hawkins DMV alumni Association for several years. Wilson was known to have an infectious smile, sharp eyes, smooth conversationalist, and mischievous. Wilson liked to dress nicely and smell good. He always wanted to be clean and neat, even during his illness. In his spare time, Wilson liked cars and enjoyed watching football, basketball, baseball, and his cowboy shows.

Wilson married Dorothy E. Manson in 1952, and from his union two children were born, Norvell Al and Pamela Elizabeth. Wilson was spoiled by Dorothy, she would deny it, but she did. Wilson and Dorothy worshiped, traveled, watched sports together, and spent time with family and friends until Dorothy's illness. They were married 1 month shy of 69 years when Dorothy passed on December 29, 2020.

Wilson leaves to cherish his memory of his son, Norvell Al Smith (Beverly) of New Castle, Delaware, daughter, Pamela McKinney (Anthony) of Upper Marlboro, MD. Six grandchildren, Tyrone (Aleshia) McIntrye, Norvell Smith Jr., Erin Wright, Jyesah (Marcus) Minor, Anthony McKinney II, Michael (Aneesa) McKinney. Ten great-grandchildren. Three great-great-grandchildren. Two nieces Aloliva Boykin, JoAnn Pennix-Parker and one nephew Claude Scates. Great-niece Jalesa Washington. Goddaughters Demetria Morton-Robinson, Angela M. Riddick. Along with a host of great nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family would like to express a special thanks to the Moore sisters (especially Mildred) and Vicki Wilkerson for consistently visiting/singing lifting Dad's spirits. To his caregivers, Ms. Terry, Ms. Diane, Ms. Linda, Namdi, Elizabeth, Davon, and Chris for taking wonderful care of Dad while he resided at the home. To AutumnLeaf Social Services for the awesome care and support throughout the years. The excellent care provided by the VA home care department. Lastly, Collingswood Rehabilitation Facility for the care for the last few months.

Whether it was a prayer, card, call, text, flowers, a hug, food, or monetary gift, your support truly warmed our hearts. You are a blessing in our lives. May God's richest blessings be yours.