Norman William Smith, Jr.

Norman William Smith, Jr. Nick · Smitty · Dad · Grandpop · Uncle Nick

"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6
Norman William Smith, Jr., also known as Nick and Smitty, was born on May 27, 1952 in Washington, D.C. to the late Rev. Dr. Norman William Smith, Sr. and Grace Thompson Smith. Nick was educated in the Fairfax County and Prince William County School Systems and graduated from Prince William’s Stonewall Jackson Senior High School in 1970. Nick’s mother says, “of all of his siblings he was the happiest and really enjoyed life.”

"Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?  By taking heed thereto according to thy word." Psalm 119:9
Nick gave his life to Christ at an early age and was baptized into the Salem Baptist Church, Great Falls, Virginia by Rev. John H. Chase. Nick transferred his membership to Mount Olive Baptist Church, Rectortown, Virginia under his father’s pastoral leadership on May 4, 1980.
At Mount Olive, Nick was a member of the Gospel Chorus. Later he became a member of the Usher Board and was known as the chief usher. As an usher, he welcomed parishioners with a smile, handshake, or hug. He took it upon himself to train the junior ushers and could be seen giving stern direction. Even when not on duty, he would usher from the pew.
He was his father’s armor-bearer and was faithful offering a handkerchief, hot tea, and a hearty “Go head Dad!”

"For even when we were with you, this we commanded you: that if any would not work, neither should he eat."  2 Thessalonians 3:10
Nick was employed at I.B.M. in production, making submarine microchips. He also worked at The Wood Stove Store, Fairfax County Public Schools at Robinson High School as a custodian, and was employed at 2Clean Auto Detailing. He found his calling at Salvation Army, working in the retail store bringing cheer to customers and residents alike.

"Behold, children are an heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." Psalm 127:3
Nick was joined in holy matrimony to Audrey Celeste Thomas on June 2, 1973. To this union was born one daughter, Anneka Chanteé Smith Goodman. Later in life he married Vicki Lynn McQueen Porter on April 2, 1988.

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Nick battled addiction and struggled many times in rehabilitation. Led by God, and with the support of his family, Nick overcame many struggles. His desire to live for God led him to seek rehabilitation at the Salvation Army. There he was freed from his addiction, met lifelong friends, and became an example for others facing challenges. During his recovery, he recommitted his life to Christ and, once again, became an active member of Mount Olive.

"Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, The Lord has done great things for them.”  Psalm 126:2
Nick had many interests in life including good gospel music. His favorite groups were the Mount Olive Gospel Chorus, the Northern Virginia Majestics, Rance Allen, Daryl Coley, and any quartet. His love for good music went beyond gospel to include artists like Earth, Wind & Fire and Luther Vandross. Nick loved good preaching and was the leader of the “amen corner” especially for his dad, and he loved to hear Bishop T. D. Jakes preach.

Nick also loved motorcycles and cars and would spend hours cleaning and detailing the cars of family and friends even from his wheelchair. An avid sports fan, he always cheered for his favorite team The Washington Redskins (even when they lost). Nick loved to get “clean” and had a fond love of bowties. He spent many hours watching old westerns on television.

Nick loved spending time with his family and would be one of the loudest cheerleaders watching his grandchildren— his heartbeats—play football and soccer. Every Christmas, he made sure everyone in the family received a gift. We will all miss our designer soaps in the decorative boxes. Nick loved taking pictures of family and friends, and it’s evident by the hundreds of photos displayed in his home.

After suffering a stroke, Nick had aphasia which limited his ability to speak. Even though his words may have seemed “nonsense” his family could understand and communicate with him. One of his most famous sayings was “Not Tuh-day!”

"A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;" Ecclesiastes 3:4
On, Saturday, October 17, 2020, with his daughter by his side, Nick breathed his last breath and entered into the arms of Jesus at his home.

"We will not keep them from our children, we will tell the next generation about the Lord’s power and his great deeds and the wonderful things he has done." Psalm 78:4

Nick leaves to mourn his daughter and champion “My Kids” Anneka and her husband, Ronnie Goodman; his grandchildren: Donovan and Alanah Goodman (whom he treasured) of Manassas, VA; his mother, Grace Smith of Gainesville, VA; his sisters: Faithe Smith of Centreville, VA, Leah Jackson of Manassas Park, VA, Lorri Jackson and her husband, Bruce of Manassas, VA; his brother, Timothy Smith of Bowie, MD and his wife, Memo; 12 nieces, five great nephews and four great nieces. Also cherishing his memory are his uncle and aunt, Rev. Roland and Geraldine Smith; and his aunt, Marva Mills. He leaves special memories to his wife, Vicki Smith. A multitude of relatives and friends who will never forget the impact he had on their lives.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, October 24, 2020, from10:00 a.m. until service time at 11:00 am at Faith Christian Church and International Outreach Center, 6472 Duhollow Road, Warrenton, VA 20187, Dr. Decker H. Tapscott, Sr. will officiate and Pastor Rodney L. Smith, Sr. will deliver the eulogy.  Facial masks or coverings and social distancing will be required. 

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