He was born January 19, 1940, in Tazewell Co a son of the late William Raymond and Mary Belle (Clemons) Smith where he grew up on a dairy farm.

In addition to his parents, he was recently preceded in death by a sister, Freda Gates.

He retired as Principal Officer, Secretary-Treasurer of the Teamsters Local Union No. 29 over 19 counties. He was owner of W.E. Smith Auto Sales of Afton, past president of the Rockfish Valley Ruritan Club, as well as District Governor. In his younger years he farmed 300 head of cattle. He believed in working hard, helping others and enjoying life.

He enjoyed traveling throughout his adult life and was a dear friend to many, including his classmates of Tazewell High School class of 1958, a group of fine people that still get together on a regular basis for a good time. He will be truly missed!

Survivors include the love of his life and life partner, Sarah; his children, Chris, Cindy and Jennifer; grandchildren, Jasmine, Miranda, Kyra, Devin, Zack, Sage, Modesty and Ember, all of which he loved dearly.

He also leaves behind a sister, Viola Asbury and husband, Jack; brother, Jack Smith and wife, Geneva; brother-in-law, Roger Gates. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 11, 2021 at the Waynesboro Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes, 618 W. Main St. Waynesboro.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Ernie’s name to the Rockfish Valley Fire Dept. 11100 Rockfish Valley Hwy, Afton, Va. 22920