Vernon Cecil Smith went home to be with our Dear Lord on August 18, 2024. He passed away peacefully with Pat and Toby by his side at his home in Warrenton, VA. He received excellent care from Fauquier Hospital, Heartland Hospice, especially Daniel, compassionate and caring care-givers, as well as extended Family members and friends. Vernon was a man of many talents, as well as being kind and loving!
Vernon was born in Birmingham, AL on April 12,1933, to LaMar and Mattie Lou Smith. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother Lamar Jr. He is survived by his wife Pat of 52 years of Warrenton and nieces and nephews on both sides of the Family. Vernon attended Auburn University. He took a break during his college career to serve in the US Army. Upon leaving the Army, he returned to Auburn. In 1958 he received his Bachelor of Architecture Degree.
In 1956 when Governor George Wallace blocked the entrance to the University of Alabama, to prevent a young black woman from entering the school; Vernon at that time was President of the Student Body. He wrote a letter to the young woman inviting her to attend Auburn University. She declined. Auburn tried to expel Vernon, but the ACLU stepped in and no action was taken against Vernon by Auburn.
Vernon was a very successful Architect in the San Francisco Bay area prior to starting his career with the National Park Service. He received a number of awards for his professional work in the private sector, as well as when working for the National Park Service as a part of the Federal Government.
Vernon was a lover of all animals, but especially dogs and horses. In his younger days he trained German Shepherds and was an accomplished horseback rider. He participated in three-day eventing and has several trophies to show for it. Vernon enjoyed many things—traveling (wanted to see Architecture all over the world), classical music, reading, studying his Bible and attending Church! (He also really enjoyed a good meal and loved trying different cuisine.) God blessed him with many talents and he shared them with his World. He will be missed by many, but especially Pat and Toby. Vernon’s life was celebrated on August 27 & 28, 2024 in Warrenton, VA. He was laid to rest in Ivy Hill Cemetery in Alexandria, VA.
Vernon loved gardening and beautiful flowers, trees, etc., but Toby and Pat are suggesting donations to Alzheimer Research or to Auburn University. Thanking you in advance for your love and kindness!