Rickie Vene Smitherman

Smitherman Yadkinville- " For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life".- John 3:16 . Mr. Rickie Vene Smitherman, 66, passed away Saturday, April 20, 2013. He was born July 14, 1946 in Forsyth County to the late Donald E. and Olive Davis Smitherman. Mr. Smitherman worked as a General Contractor for over 40 years throughout the area. He was an active member of Friendship Baptist Church where he served the church as a Deacon, and was the Church Clerk for 17 years. He enjoyed the outdoors, playing golf, yardworking, landscaping, and was an excellent handyman. Rickie enjoyed his annual fishing trip to the coast with a special group of friends from over the years; however, his greatest joy in life was his family and the time spent with each of them. "Paw Paw" never missed a ball game or any of the grandchildren's activities. In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by his brother, Danny Smitherman. Surviving are his beloved wife of 48 years, Barbara Starling Smitherman, of the home; his daughter, Candy, and her husband, Kent Shumate, East Bend; his son,Rodney and wife, Jennifer Smitherman, East Bend; grandchildren, Miah, Annah, and Norah Smitherman; his sister, Wanda Kay and husband Tim Burgess; and his godchildren, Sarah Starling Matthews and Emily Starling, and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Monday at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville. His funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday at Friendship Baptist Church by Rev. Brian Chilton and Mr. Kent Shumate. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Friendship Baptist Church, 4720 Siloam Road, East Bend, NC 27018. The family would like to express their gratitude to Yadkin Nursing and Rehabilitation Care Center, Dr. Jerry Ziglar for the loving care given during Mr. Smitherman's illness; and they are very grateful to everyone who has offered the prayers and support. Online condolences may be made to www.gentryfuneralservice.com.