Douglas Bryant Smith, Sr.

   Douglas Bryant Smith, Sr., 72, of 803 Happy Home Road, Tyner, NC, died Friday, January 14, 2022 in Vidant Chowan Hospital, Edenton.

   Mr. Smith was born in Chowan County on September 11, 1949, and was the son of the late Kermit William Smith and Josephine Baker Smith Newbern. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Elton, Ray, and Tracy Smith.

   A retired Physical Science Technician from Norfolk Naval Shipyard after 29 years of employment, he had served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and received two Purple Hearts for wounds suffered in combat. Memberships enjoyed included the Ryland Ruritans, the Pembroke Bass Club, the Fishers of Men Bass Club, and the Edward G. Bond Post #40 of The American Legion.

   Lovingly known as “PawPaw” to both family and friends, he is survived by his wife of 37 years, Aleta Meadows Smith; his son, Bryant Smith of Portsmouth, VA; and his brother, Rodney Baker Smith (Barbara) of Tyner. Also surviving are Aleta’s daughters, Stephanie Byrum Parsons (Jason) and Heather Byrum, both of Tyner. Together Doug and Aleta shared five grandchildren, Brooke Parsons Ward (Tyler), Summer Cahoon, Cole Parsons (Sarah), Skhi Benton, and Zachary Wilson; five great-grandchildren, Jayden White, Lyla Bishop, and Liam, Landon, and Hunter Ward; and two sisters-in-law, Sue and Judy Smith.

   A graveside service will be held Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. in the Smith Family Cemetery at the home, and will be conducted by the Rev. Walter Byrum. Due to the resurgence of the Covid Virus in the area, no formal visitation is planned; however friends may visit with the family at the graveside immediately following the service.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301, or online at www.donatedav.org, or by phone at (877) 647-VETS.

   Miller Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.