Command Sergeant Major Prentice Blaine Smith, affectionately known as "Smitty," was born on August 18, 1940, and passed away on April 24, 2024, at the age of 83. He grew up on a family farm in Bluefield, Virginia, along with his siblings, Harry, Darrin, Barbara, and Lois (Snooky), where he learned the value of hard work.

At the age of 18, Smitty joined the US Army, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned 29 years. He primarily served in supply and logistics positions and was selected as the Soldier of the Year at Fort Bragg, NC, with the 18th Airborne Corps. Throughout his career, Smitty served at many military posts worldwide, including Fort Bragg, NC; Fort Ord, CA; Fort Lewis, WA; Vietnam; Germany; and Okinawa, Japan. His final assignment was as the Command Sergeant Major of the Ordinance Battalion with the 7th Infantry Division (Light).

After retiring from the military in 1986, Smitty began a second career with the Vernon Company in Tacoma, WA, selling promotional advertising products. Through persistence and hard work, he became a proud member of the Vernon Company's elite Million Dollar Salesman group and was the sixth-highest-leading salesman in the company's history.

In his leisure time, Smitty enjoyed playing golf, visiting casinos near his home and in Reno, NV, and traveling whenever he could. He set a high standard for others with his love for excellence in all tasks, his fearless leadership, his competitive spirit, and his unconditional love for his family, friends, country, and God.

Smitty was a loving father to his children, including Steve, Teresa, Mickey, Richard, April, Kelley, and Dana, and was proud of all his grandchildren. He never missed an opportunity to send a holiday or birthday card to them. Smitty was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of many years, Leona. As the couple had planned, Smitty will be buried next to Leona in the New Tacoma Cemetery. Smitty's family and friends will deeply miss him, but his legacy will live on through the memories he created and the example he set.

Smitty will have a Graveside Committal Service on Thursday, May 9th, at 1:00 pm at New Tacoma Cemeteries and Funeral Home, University Place, WA. His family would like to invite all who wish to attend.