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FRANKLIN – Linda Lee Smith, 76, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2024. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, her life was a testament to love, dedication,and community service.

Linda was the devoted wife of Ray

Smith for 58 wonderful years. Together, they built a beautiful life and a loving family. She was the cherished mother of three sons: Donnie Smith, Mike Smith (Lauren) and Chris Smith (Melody), who were the pride and joy of her life. Linda’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Katlyn Smith, Justin Smith, Megan Franklin (Austin) and Carlee Gurskiy (Max) and her great-grandchildren: Jayden Lyons, McKenzie Lyons and Luke Williams, who brought her endless happiness. All have survived her death and will miss her tremendously.

Linda was predeceased by her parents, James and Virginia Castillo and brother, James E. Castillo.

In her early career, Linda worked as a corporate sales manager for U-Haul. During this time, she was the ultimate “Momager” supporting her boys’ special aptitude for baseball. She attended every game, stepped in as line coach, kissed every scraped knee and was their biggest cheerleader. Her entrepreneurial spirit then led her to build and operate several successful businesses with her husband and sons, including Smith’s General Store, Holland Nursery, Franklin Garden Center, Virginia Peanut Company, Serve Restaurant and Virginia Outdoors. Each venture was a testament to her business acumen, commitment to keeping family strong and love for her community.

Linda was an avid volunteer, dedicating countless hours to various community projects. Her creativity shone through in her holiday decorations and flower arrangements, bringing beauty and joy to downtown businesses and events. Her favorite charity was Blackwater Community Events, whose primary contribution to the community is the Franklin Cruise-In. She devoted hours of her life registering the weekly participants, fundraising, and spreading her joy and enthusiasm to all attendees. Her presence was a beacon of light and warmth, making all things beautiful with her touch. Linda’s life was a tapestry of love, hard work and service. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and the community she so dearly loved.

A celebration of Linda’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 15 at Wright Funeral Home in Franklin, Virginia. The family will receive friends beginning at 1 p.m. A short graveside service will take place directly following the service at Poplar Springs Cemetery on Homestead Road. All family and friends who wish to attend are welcome.

Linda, your love and light will forever guide us. Rest in peace.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org