Michael L. Smith
July 8, 1942 - November 13, 2025

Michael was born in Newport News, Virginia to Quentin Joseph Smith and Willianna Bell Wynne on July 8, 1942. He grew up in a large, close-knit family with his brothers Quentin, David, and Stephen, and sisters Evelyn, Anita, and Margaret. He attended Phenix High School in Hampton, Virginia - later reorganized after integration and renamed Pembroke High School - graduating in 1960. He was an excellent left-handed pitcher in high school and earned a scholarship to attend North Carolina A&T University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in Health and Physical Education.

Throughout his professional career Michael worked as a physical education teacher in almost every middle school in the city of Norfolk, Virginia, retiring after 47 years of service. When he wasn't at work, he enjoyed taking pictures with one of his many cameras. He was an umpire for softball and the gun starter for track races. Everywhere he went he always ran into former students, and oftentimes the children of his former students. Anyone he had ever taught would enthusiastically run up to him and say "Hey, Mr. Smith!"

He always made time to attend the MEAC college basketball tournament and the Hampton Jazz Festival. He was a devoted fan of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Washington Commanders.

Michael is survived by his daughter, Marti Smith; son, Michael Smith (Andrea); grandsons, Caleb, Cyrus, and Brandon; siblings, Col. Quentin Smith, Jr. [Ret.] (Louise), Evelyn Williamston, and Margaret S. Johnson (Jay); special friend, Barbara Pulley; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; and many, many more friends and colleagues.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 4, 2025, at O.H. Smith & Son Funeral Home in Newport News.  Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens in Hampton.  Viewing will be from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the funeral home and from 9:00 a.m. until the hour of the service on Thursday.

The family would like to thank Bayside Health and Rehab, Bristol Home Health Care & Hospice, Josh Herras, and Jasmine Herras for their great care.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.