Naomi E. Smith of Mathews County, Virginia, peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home in the early morning hours of October 30, 2026 at Riverside Lifelong Health and Rehabilitation in Saluda, Virginia.

Naomi was raised in the Moon community of Mathews and attended Mathews County Public Schools. At an early age, she joined First Baptist Church of Mathews. As a member, she served on numerous committees and ministries.

She worked as a childcare provider for several local families before becoming a floral designer at Hopkins Design, where her creative work was featured on the beloved television show “I Love Lucy.” She later worked as a dedicated food service professional at the Williamsburg Lodge. With the opening of Riverside Walter Reed Hospital in 1977, she began what would become one of the most significant chapters of her work life, serving first as an Environmental Services Technician and later as a supervisor. She devoted many years to Riverside, where she was known for her hard work, dedication, and caring spirit, and where she built countless long-lasting relationships with coworkers and members of the community.

After retiring from Riverside, Naomi’s caring spirit never slowed down. She continued to provide care and companionship to elderly individuals in her community, but her love and service extended far beyond that. She was always there for friends, church family, and anyone who needed a helping hand.

Caring for others was not simply something Naomi did; it was at the very heart of who she was.

Naomi was preceded in death by her parents, 10 siblings, and one son-in-law.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved daughters, Jacqueline Smith Blake and D. Maxine Butler (Cephus Jr.); those she loved as daughters, Arlene Williams (Roy) and Crystal Cooke; her grandchildren, Shanay Butler and Ryan Butler (Brianca), and her great-granddaughter, Ariana Butler. She also leaves numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Newington Baptist Church, Gloucester. The interment will be at First Baptist Church, Mathews. The viewing will be the hour prior to the service.

Service of comfort entrusted to J.K. Redmond Funeral Home, Shacklefords.