Shirley Evelyn Smith Vail, 78, of Newport News, passed away Monday, March 12, 2018, after a long illness.

She was born April 13, 1939 to the late Robert Bruce Smith and Ronnie Howell Smith of Suffolk, and married to John D. Vail until he passed away on Nov. 2, 1981. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Myrtle Walters; brothers, Howell Lee Smith, Robert B. Smith and Chester W. Smith.

Survivors include her sister, Naomi Smith Sutton (husband, Marion P. Sutton); nieces, Camille Sutton Fisher, Melanie A. Smith; great-nieces, Stephanie Walters and Alexandra Fisher, and great-nephew, Steve Walters.

Shirley was renowned for her amazing memory and intellect. She always had the highest grades during her school years. She was valedictorian of Newport News High School, class of 330 students, in 1957. She graduated from Westhampton University, Richmond, Phi Beta Kappa, with a degree in Chemistry. She was subsequently awarded a fellowship and graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University. She was employed by Dow Chemical, Bureau of Standards, and worked as a chemist in other positions. 

After retirement, Shirley enjoyed occasionally substituting teaching in the Newport News public school system. She was always an avid reader and historian on Thomas Jefferson. She was the family’s authority on all matters dealing with genealogy. 

A graveside service will be held Thursday, March 15, at 1 p.m. at Peninsula Memorial Park, with the Rev. Phil Jones conducting.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 11835 Canon Blvd., A-102, Newport News, Va. 23606.

Peninsula Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.